THE WRITINGS OF
THOMAS JEFFERSON
Definitive Edition
CONTAINING HIS
AUTOBIOGRAPHY, NOTES ON VIRGINIA, PARLIA-
MENTARY MANUAL, OFFICIAL PAPERS,
MESSAGES AND ADDRESSES, AND OTHER
WRITINGS, OFFICIAL AND PRIVATE,
NOW COLLECTED AND
PUBLISHED IN THEIR ENTIRETY FOR THE FIRST TIME
INCLUDING
ALL OF THE ORIGINAL MANUSCRIPTS, DEPOSITED IN THE DEPARTMENT
OF STATE AND PUBLISHED IN 1953 BY ORDER OF THE
JOINT COMMITTEE OF CONGRESS
WITH NUMEROUS ILLUSTRATIONS
AND
A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYTICAL INDEX
ALBERT ELLERY BERGH
EDITOR
VOL. XIX.
ISSUED UNDER THE AUSPICES OF
THE THOMAS JEFFERSON MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION
OF THE UNITED STATES
WASHINGTON, D. C.
1907
COPYRIGHT, 1905
By
THE THOMAS JEFFERSON MEMORIAL
ASSOCIATION
JEFFERSON AS A MAN OF SCIENCE.
It is an interesting tribute to the value of the
scientific mind that two of the men among the most
important in the establishment of the United States
of America were at the same time its earliest and most
distinguished students of the natural and physical
sciences, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson,
and while the time of both of these men 'was
largely given to public affairs, their chief intellectual
interest lay in the discovery and the setting forth of
new truths. Jefferson wrote to a correspondent,
" Nature intended me for the tranquil pursuits of
science, by rendering them my supreme delight,"
but he was likewise impressed with the fact that
there was a relationship between science and repub-
lican institutions. To Monsieur d'Ivernois he uses
the phrase : " Freedom, the first-born of science, " and
to General Kosciusko he says: "The main objects
of all science are the freedom and happiness of man, "
while to another correspondent he declares that
" Science is more important in a republican than in
any other government. "
The first public demonstration of Jefferson's capa-
bility as a man of science was the preparation and
iv Jefferson as a Man of Science
publication in 1781. of his " Notes on Virginia. " " This, "
according to the late G. Brown Goode, assistant sec-
retary of the Smithsonian Institution and the his-
torian of American science, "was the first compre-
hensive treatise upon the topography, natural history
and natural resources of one of the United States,
and was the precursor of the great library of scientific
reports which have since been issued by the State and
Federal governments. Though hastily prepared to
meet a special need, if measured by its influence it is
the most important scientific work as yet published in
America. " In this work he successfully overthrew
many of the arguments of Buffon, who was at the
time considered the highest living authority on natu-
ral history subjects ; and later, when he came to know
Buffon in Paris, the latter admitted some of the
errors that he had made.
In a valuable paper published in the Magazine of
American History for 1885, Frederick C. Luther
points out that Jefferson " had a more or less prac-
tical knowledge of surgical anatomy, civil engineer-
ing, physics, meteorology, mechanics and astronomy;
and was at home in many departments of pure and
applied science, but it was in natural history that he
was most interested, and as a naturalist he made his
only original contribution to scientific knowledge."
* * * " He seems to have acquired nearly all the
knowledge the world then possessed of geology and
zoology, and while many of the theories advanced in
his ` Notes on Virginia ' have been rejected by mod-
Jefferson as a Man of Science. v
ern science, in some of his conclusions Jefferson was
quite in advance of the best specialists of the age, and
notably so in the department of palaeontology."
In fact palaeontology in the United States. had its
beginning in a paper filed with the American Philo-
sophical Society by Jefferson under date of March
10, 1797, announcing his discovery of the Megalonyx
Jeffersoni; this paper was published under the title,
"Memoir on the Discovery of a Quadruped in the
Western Parts of Virginia, " in the Transactions of
the American Philosophical Society. The original
specimen was deposited in the American Philosoph-
ical Society and subsequently transferred to the
Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, where
it may still be seen. The announcement of this dis-
covery was coincident with his arrival in Philadelphia
to be inaugurated as Vice-President of the United
States, and upon that occasion he brought with him
a collection of fossil bones of the specimen in question,
which he had obtained in Greenbrier County, Vir-
ginia.
But his interest in palaeontology did not stop here.
In February, 1801, during the excitement of the con-
test with Aaron Burr, he was corresponding with
Doctor Wistar with regard to some bones of the
mammoth which he had just procured from Shawan-
gunk, in New York.
In 1808, when the excitement over the embargo
was highest and his policy was under the severest
denunciation, he was carrying on palaeontological
vi Jefferson as a Man of Science
studies in the White House. Under his direction
upwards of 300 specimens of fossil bones had been
brought from the famous Big Bone Lick, and spread
in one of the large unfinished rooms of the Presiden-
tial mansion. Doctor Wistar was asked to come
from Philadelphia and select such as were needed to
complete the collection of the Philosophical Society.
The exploration of the Lick was made at the private
expense of Jefferson, through the agency of General
William Clarke, and this may fairly be recorded as
the beginning of American governmental work in
palaeontology.
But palaeontology was not the only scientific sub-
ject which engaged his attention. He was, when
Secretary of State in Washington's Cabinet, chairman
of a committee organized by the American Philo-
sophical Society in 1792, to collect materials for the
natural history of the Hessian Fly, whose ravages in
the wheat-fields threatened so great a danger to the
prosperity of the country. This appears to be the
first organized effort in economic entomology in the
United States.
He was greatly interested in the discovery and
cultivation of plants useful in agriculture. He had
a table beautifully drawn up, giving the average
earliest and latest appearance of thirty-seven varie-
ties of vegetables in the Washington market during
the whole eight years of his presidency, and on his
journeys abroad he was always looking out for new
plants which might with profit be transplanted to
Jefferson as a Man of Science xvii
America. When in later life he drew up a list of the
services he believed he had rendered his countrymen;
he enumerated, along with the disestablishment of a,
State Church, the abolition of entails. the prohibition
of slave importation, and the drafting of the Declara-
tion of Independence, " the introduction of olive plants
and heavy upland rice into South Carolina and Geor-
gia, " declaring that " the greatest service which can
be rendered to any country is to add a useful plant
to its culture. "
His interest in agriculture even went in the direc-
tion of the invention of a new plow. As far back as
1788 Jefferson entered upon some speculations con-
cerning the improvement of plows, and attempted to
sketch an original and uniform mathematical rule for
shaping the mould-board of a plow, the object being
to secure the regular inversion of a certain depth of
the surface soil with the least application of force.
By 1796 his new plows were in use. A Mr. Strick-
land, a member of the English Board of Agriculture,
being on a visit to Monticello, saw there plows in
operation constructed on this principle, and mention-
ing them favorably on his return, the Board, through
its president; Sir John Sinclair, requested from Mr.
Jefferson a model and a description. These were
forwarded to England in 1798. The description was
published in the Edinburgh Encyclopaedia and in
the fourth volume of the Transactions of the Ameri-
can Philosophical Society. The invention also
attracted attention in France. He is likewise
viii Jefferson as a Man of Science
credited with being the inventor of the copying
press. , He made observations in meteorology and
had a good collection of philosophical apparatus.
It has been declared by Mr. Goode that "it is
probable that no two men have done so much for
science in America as Jefferson and Agassiz-not so
much by their direct contributions to knowledge, as
by the immense weight which they gave to scientific
interests by their advocacy."
This statement is fully borne out by the impetus
which Jefferson gave to the relationship of the Gov-
ernment to scientific work. The inception of the
system of scientific surveys of the public domain was
the outcome of more than twenty years of earnest
endeavor on his part. It was he who suggested to
John Ledyard, of Connecticut, the enterprise of
exploring the western part of our continent by pass-
ing through St. Petersburg to Kamchatka, and pro-
curing passage in some Russian vessel to the United
States-a project which failed because of the arrest
of Ledyard. In 1792 he proposed to the American
Philosophical Society to set on foot a subscription to
explore the great West, and for this subscription
became responsible for raising one thousand guineas.
This was to have been undertaken jointly by Captain
Meriwether Lewis and Michaux, the botanist, but it
also failed. In 1803 he recommended to Congress
in a confidential message, the sending of an exploring
party to trace the Missouri to its source, to cross the
highlands, to follow the best water communication
Jefferson as a Man of Science ix
which offered itself from thence to the Pacific Ocean.
Congress approved the proposition and voted a sum
of money for carrying it into execution. Captain
Lewis, who had been with Jefferson nearly two years
as private secretary, immediately renewed his request
to have direction of the party. The second expedi-
tion toward the West was also sent out during Jeffer-
son 's administration, being that under command of
General Z. M. Pike, who was, sent to explore the
sources of the Mississippi River and the western parts
of Louisiana, continuing as far west as Pike's Peak
the name of which still remains as a memorial of this
enterprise. It was during Jefferson's administration
too, that the project of founding the Coast Survey
arose. This was recommended to Congress by the
President in 1807.
It was under his Presidency that the idea of Wash-
ington for the establishment of a Military Academy
at West Point was fulfilled, and Jefferson also had a
plan, realized later, for the establishment of a National
Observatory. It was he who proposed the unit of the
present coinage of the United States.
He was elected President of the American Philo-
sophical Society in January, 1797, and held that
office until 1814, when he resigned on account of his
age. His connection with the Society, as may be
seen from the statements above, was by no means
perfunctory. During his residence in Paris he kept
four of the principal American colleges, Harvard,
Yale, William and Mary, and the College of Phila-
x Jefferson as a Man of Science
delphia, informed of all that happened in the scien-
tific circles of Europe. Even such a subject as aerial
invention attracted his attention. His letters of
1785 contain several references to the Montgolfier
balloon. At a time when the natural sciences were
but little cultivated in the established universities,
he wrote to Doctor Willard, the President of Harvard
urging their pursuit. " What a field, " he said, " have
we at our doors to signalize ourselves in. The botany
of America is far from being exhausted, its miner-
alogy is untouched, and its natural history or zoology,
totally mistaken and misrepresented."
His devotion to science, coincident with his active
public life and the bitter enmities which it engen-
dered, gave the opportunity for much public criti-
cism, yet it afforded Jefferson, as it did to Franklin,
especial consideration as representative of the new
nation in France ; it earned him election in numerous
learned societies in Europe and gave an impetus to
the organization of science both in the learned socie-
ties, in the colleges and in connection with the Gov-
ernment of the United States, such as could only
have been exercised by a man who had occupied the
exalted office of President of the United States.
CONTENTS.
JEFFERSON AS A MAN OF SCIENCE.By Cyrus Adler,
Ph. D., Librarian of the Smithsonian Institution,
Washington, D. C.
...........................................................................
i
SUPPLEMENTARY MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE GOVERN-
MENT COLLECTION. (Letters written from, 1780-
1825)..........................................................................
...................................1-288
To Horatio Gates, November 4,
1780................................................................1
To William Carmichael, June 22,
1785...............................................................2
To Francis Hopkinson, July 6,
1785...................................................................5
To George Washington, July 10,
1785................................................................8
To St. John De Crevecoeur, August 22,
1785...................................................10
To James Currie, September 27,
1785..............................................................11
To Rev James Madison, October 28,
1785.......................................................15
To Francis Eppes, December 11,
1785.............................................................20
To George Washington, January 4,
1786..........................................................23
To William Carmichael, January 13,
1786.........................................................26
To James Madison, April 25,
1786...................................................................29
To Philip Mazzei, April 4,
1787........................................................................32
To I,'Abbe D'Arnal, July 9,
1787......................................................................34
To John Adams, July 23,
1787.........................................................................36
To Benjamin Franklin, August 6,
1787..............................................................38
To John Adams" December 31,
1787...............................................................39
To Edward Bancroft, January 26,
1788............................................................41
To Countess Barziza, July 8,
1788....................................................................45
To C. W. F. Dumas, July 30,
1788..................................................................46
To John Jay, September 5,
1788......................................................................47
To Francis Hopkinson, December 5,
1788.......................................................48
Contents
SUPPLEMENTARY MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE GOVERN-
MENT COLLECTION-CONTINUED
page
To John Jay; March 1,
1789........................................................................52
To John Paul Jones, March, 23,
1789..........................................................54
To John Adams, May 20,
1789...................................................................60
To Nathaniel Cutting, June 7,
1789..............................................................62
To Thomas Paine, July 13,
1789.................................................................63
To John Bondfield, July 16,
1789................................................................64
To John Jay, August 5,
1789.......................................................................65
To Gen. Henry Knox, September 12,
1789.................................................67
To William Bingham, September 25,
1789...................................................69
To Baron De Geismer, November 20,
1789................................................71
To David Rittenhouse, June 12,
1790..........................................................73
To the Secretary of the Treasury (Alexander
Hamilton), June 25,
1791...........................................................................
.75
To T. M. Randolph, July 3,
1791................................................................76
To James Madison, July 21,
1791...............................................................79
To Gov. William Blount, August 12,
1791...................................................81
To George Hammond (British Minister),December 15, 1791.......................82
To George Washington, January 10,
1792..................................................86
To Peter Charles L'Enfant, February 27,
1792............................................87
To Thomas Johnson, David Stuart and Daniel
Carroll,March 8,
1792...........................................................................
....88
To Louis XVI, March 14,
1792.................................................................92
To Benjamin Hawkins, April 1,
1792.........................................................93
To Thomas Johnson, David Stuart and Daniel
Carroll, April 20,
1792...........................................................................
....94
To His Majesty George III, of England, June 6,
1792..................................96
To the Queen of England, June 6,
1792.......................................................97
To Stephen Cathalan, December 2,
1792....................................................98
To Gov. John Hancock,
[1793].................................................................101
To David Humphreys, January 3,
1793......................................................102
To John Garland Jefferson, April 14,
1793.................................................103
xii Contents
SUPPLEMENTARY MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE GOVERN-
MENT COLLECTION-CONTINUED...............................................PAGE
To Edmond C. Genet, August 16,
1793....................................................105
To Maria Jefferson, November 17,
1793..................................................106
To Alexander Hamilton, December 12,
1793............................................107
To the President of Bank of the United States,
January.-,
1794...........................................................................
.............108
To George Washington, February 23,
1795..............................................108
To Aaron Burr, January 7,
1797...............................................................114
To Louis, Prince of Parma, May 23,
1797................................................115
To Gov. James Monroe, April 13,
1800...................................................119
To Andrew Ellicott, December 18,
1800..................................................121
To Gen. Thaddeus Kosciusko, March 14,
1801.......................................122
To James Madison, April 30,
1801...........................................................124
To John Langdon, May 22,
1801..............................................................125
To James Monroe, March 31,
1802..........................................................126
To Abraham Baldwin, April 14,
1802........................................................128
To Thomas Law, May 31,
1802................................................................130
To William Punbar, March 3,
1803............................................................131
To Dr. Benjamin Rush, April 23,
1803.......................................................133
To Henry Dearborn, August 23,
1803........................................................134
To the Emperor of Morocco, December 20,
1803.....................................135
To John Langdon, December 22,
1803......................................................136
To Gov. John Page, December 23,
1803...................................................138
To the Dey of Algiers, March 27,
1804......................................................139
To F.. H. Alexander von Humboldt, May 28,
1804....................................140
To the Secretary of War (Henry Dearborn),June 6,
1804..........................141
To Alexander, Emperor of Russia, June 15,
1804.......................................142
To the Brothers of the Choctaw Nation, March 13,
1805...........................144
To the Chiefs of the Cherokee Nation, January 10,
1806............................146
To William H. Harrison, January 16,
1806.................................................150
Contents xiii
SUPPLEMENTARY MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE GOVERN-
MENT
COLLECTION-Continued...........................................................
..page
To Rev. Doctor G. C. Jenner, May 14,
1806.............................................152
To Albert Gallatin, June 21,
1806...............................................................153
To Pierre Auguste Adet, June 29,
1806......................................................154
To Andrew Jackson; December 3,
1806....................................................156
To John Langdon, December 22,
1806......................................................157
To Henry Lee, February 1,
1807................................................................158
To Andrew Jackson, March 21,
1807........................................................159
To Joel Barlow, June 14,
1807...................................................................161
To George Hay, October 11,
1807.............................................................162
To F. A. Delacroix, December 21,
1807.....................................................162
To George Hay, February 16,
1808............................................................164
To G. Hyde de Neuville, February 17,
1808................................................165
To Marquis de Lafayette, April 28,
1808.....................................................166
To Thomas Paine, July 17,
1808..................................................................170
To Archibald Stuart, October 22,
1808.......................................................171
To Robert. Fulton, April 16,
1808...............................................................172
To Dr. William Eustis, May 30,
1810..........................................................174
To W. B. Giles, November 12,
1810..........................................................175
To James Madison; December 8,
1810.......................................................176
To James Monroe, January 8,
1811............................................................179
To Rev. James Madison, December 29,
1811.............................................183
To Andrew Ellicott, June 24,
1812..............................................................185
To William Barton, October 2,
1812...........................................................186
To Alrichs and Dixon, January 14,
1813......................................................186
To Robert Fulton, March 8,
1813...............................................................187
To Elbridge Gerry, June 19,
1813...............................................................189
To James Madison, July 13,
1813...............................................................190
To Robert Fulton, July 21,
1813..................................................................192
To Abigail Adams (Mrs. John Adams), August 22,
1813.............................193
To Dupont de Nemours, November 29,
1813.............................................195
To Thaddeus Kosciusko, November 30,
1813.............................................200
To James Monroe, January 27,
1814...........................................................206
xiv Content
SUPPLEMENTARY MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE GOVERN-
MENT
COLLECTION--CONTINUED....................................................PAGE
To J. Correa de Serra, April 19,
1814.........................................................209
To Peter Carr, September 7,
1814...............................................................211
To William Caruthers, December 3,
1814.....................................................221
To B. S. Barton, February 26,
1815.............................................................223
To J. Correa De Serra, January 1,
1816.......................................................224
To Thomas Appleton, January 14,
1816.......................................................228
To P. S..Duponceau; January 22,
1816........................................................231
To Albert Gallatin, April 11,
1816................................................................233
To J. F. Dumoulin, May 7,
1816..................................................................236
To Marquis de Lafayette, May 17,
1816......................................................237
To Francis Eppes, May 21,
1816.................................................................241
To James Barbour, January 19,
1817...........................................................242
To James Monroe, April 8,
1817.................................................................243
To Joseph Delaplaine, April 12,
1817..........................................................246
To Jean Baptiste Say, May 14,
1817...........................................................248
To Joseph C. Cabell, October 24,
1817......................................................250
To the Secretary of the Treasury (William H.
Crawford), January 5,
1818........................................................................252
To Gen. John Armstrong, January 19,
1818................................................253
To Count Dagnani (Papal Nuncio), February
14,
1818...........................................................................
.........................254
To Albert Gallatin, February 15,
1818........................................................258
To Jacob Bigelow, April 11,
1818.............................................................259
To Charles. Jared Ingersoll, July 20,
1818..................................................262
To Joseph Milligan, October 25,
1818.......................................................263
To Nathaniel Bowditch, October 26,
1818.................................................264
To Marquis de Lafayette, November 23,
1818...........................................268
To Henry Dearborn, July 5,
1818...............................................................270
To Elijah Griffith, May 15,
1820.................................................................273
To James Monroe, August 13,
1821..........................................................274
To Levett Harris, December 12,
1821........................................................277
To John Quincy Adams, July 18,
1824.......................................................278
To James Madison; September 24,
1824...................................................278
Contents xv
SUPPLEMENTARY MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE GOVERN-
MENT COLLECTION-Continued.
To Messrs. Adams, Fitzuhuylson and Brocken-
brough, October 18,
1824......................................................................279
To Marquis de Lafayette, January 16,
1825............................................280
To William H. Crawford, February 15,
1825..........................................282
To Edward Everett, July 21,
1825..........................................................283
To Marquis de Lafayette, August 8,
1825...............................................285
To James Madison, October 18,
1825....................................................286
MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE VIRGINIA STATE LIBRARY
COLLECTION. (Letters written from 1780-1781)........................ 293-356
To the Quarter-Masters of Frederick, Hampshire
and Berkeley, December 24,
1780........................................................293
To Major-General Baron Steuben, January 12, 1781............................294
To Major-General Baron Steuben, January 14, 1781............................294
To Colonel Timothy Pickering, January 15,
1781..................................296
To General Nelson, January 16,
1781...................................................297
To Colonel Carvington, January 16,
1781.............................................298
To Baron Steuben, January 19,
1781....................................................298
To Baron Steuben, January 19,
1781....................................................300
To Baron Steuben, January 29,
1781....................................................300
To Governor Nash, of North Carolina, February 2, 1781......................301
To Baron Steuben, February 7,
1781....................................................302
To Baron Steuben, February 7,
1781....................................................303
To the Virginia Delegates in Congress, February 7, 1781
......................304
To General Nelson, February 10,
1781.................................................305
To Baron Steuben, February 12,
1781..................................................306
To Speaker Harrison (House of Burgesses),
February 12,
1781...........................................................................
..309
To Baron Steuben, February 13,
1781.................................................310
xvi Contents
MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE VIRGINIA STATE LIBRARY
COLLECTION---Continued.........................................................
..page
To Baron Steuben, February 15,
1781.............................................311
To Baron Steuben, February 17,
1781.............................................312
To Baron Steuben, February 18,
1781.............................................313
To General Greene, February 19,
1781............................................314
To Baron Steuben, February 21,
1781.............................................315
To the Officer Commanding the Naval Force of
His Most Christian Majesty on the Coast of
Virginia,. February 28,
1781...........................................................316
To Colonel. Pickering, March 4,
1781.............................................317
To the Honorable Judges of the High Court of
Chancery, March 5,
1781...............................................................319
To the Speaker of the House of Delegates, March
9,
1781...........................................................................
...............320
To General Muhlenberg, March 16, 1781.......................................321
To the Speaker of the House of Delegates, March
17,
1781...........................................................................
.............322
To the Speaker of the House of Delegates,
March 17,
1781...........................................................................
..322
To His Excellency the Governor of Hispaniola,
March 24,
1781...........................................................................
..323
To His Excellency Governor Nash, March 24, 1781.......................324
To General Greene, March 24,
1781..............................................326
To Marquis de Lafayette, March 28, 1781.....................................328
To Baron Steuben, April 3,
1771...................................................330
To General Muhlemberg, April 3,
1781..........................................331
To Baron Steuben, April 6,
1781...................................................333
To Major General Nathaniel Greene, April 5, 1781........................334
To Colonel Henry Lee, April 13,
1781...........................................336
To Baron Steuben, April 14,
1781.................................................337
To the County Lieutenants of Fauquier, Lou-
doun, Caroline, Albezriarle, Fluvanna, Gooch-
land and Henrico, April 14,
1781..................................................338
vol xix - B
Contents xvii
MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE VIRGINIA STATE LIBRARY
COLLECTION--Continued
To the Honorable Richard Henry Lee, April 16,1781......................340
To General Muhlenberg, April 16,
1781..........................................341
To John Page, April 18,
1781.........................................................342
To Baron Steuben, April 20,
1781..................................................343
To Marquis de Lafayette, April 23,
1781........................................344
To the President of the Board of War, April 25, 1781.....................345
To Baron Steuhen, April 26,
1781..................................................346
To Marquis de Lafayette, May 6,
1781..........................................348
To His Excellency General Washington and the
Honorable Virginia Delegates in Congress,
May 10,
1781...........................................................................
....348
To His Excellency President Reid, May 22, 1781...........................349
To Major Richard Claiborne, May 23, 1781..................................350
To Marquis de Lafayette, May 29,
1781........................................352
To the County Lieutenants of York, New Kent,
Hanover, Gloucester, King and Queen, King
William, Middlesex, Essex, Caroline, Spotsyl-
vania, Lancaster, Richmond, King George,
Northumberland, Westmoreland, Stafford,
Prince William, Fairfax, Loudoun and Berke-
ley, May 29,
1781........................................................................353
To Marquis de Lafayette, May 30, 1781.......................................354
To Marquis de Lafayette, May 30, 1781.......................................355
To the Surveyor of the County of Monongalia,
June 3,
1781...........................................................................
......356
MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
COLLECTION. An Exact Transcript of the
Minutes of the Board of Visitors of the Uni-
versity of Virginia during the Rectorship of
Thomas
Jefferson..................................................................361-
499
SUPPLEMENTARY
MANUSCRIPTS
FROM
THE GOVERNMENT COLLECTION
INTRODUCTORY NOTES.
After the publication of the Congressional Edition of the Writings
of Thomas Jefferson, in 1853, a great number of valuable letters and
papers were given to the world. These were mainly drawn from the
archives of the State Department. While the Congressional Edition
served the purpose of a representative selection of the immense
amount of Jefferson manuscripts at Washington, there still remained
(even after later examination and use) an interesting residuum worthy
of preservation in print. To this end a new research was instituted
which resulted in the collection to be found under the " Supplementary
Manuscripts" in the following pages. Therefore, excepting two
letters, one to the Reverend James Madison, October 28, 1785, and
the other to Edward Bancroft, January 26, 1788, both published by
the late Paul Leicester Ford, all these letters and notes are printed for
the first time in the present edition of Jefferson's Writings.
While it was the original intention to incorporate in this division
of "Supplementary Manuscripts" material never before presented to
the public in connection with Jefferson's works, the two letters to
Madison and Bancroft were considered too important from an his-
torical standpoint to be omitted. In these letters Jefferson expresses
in a most forceful manner his impressions of the French peasantry
before the Revolution of 1789, and. his attitude toward the slave ques-
tion in the United States. Many of the letters touch upon serious
points and problems connected with the acquisition of the Louisiana
territory.
Manuscripts of the letters are addressed to the celebrated men of
the period such as Washington, Monroe, Kosciusko, the Emperor of
Russia, Humboldt, and equally eminent personages. The group of
letters to Lafayette are probably more interesting than any hitherto
published. This new quota of correspondence covers a period
between 1780-1826, in fact up to a month of the writer s death.
At Jefferson's death, the great mass of his manuscript papers
Came into the possession of his grandson and namesake, Thomas
Jefferson Randolph. A rough division was made of these papers
xxiv Introductory Notes
which separated those of a private nature from those of public char-
acter. In time the public papers were for sale to the United States
Government. The Congress, by an act of the 12th of April, 1848,
made an appropriation of 20,000 for the purpose of purchase. The
Supplementary Manuscripts have all been drawn from the Government
collection. The letters and memoranda have been selected with a
view to sustaining the standard of the preceding volumes. Not
alone do they embrace many of Jefferson's letters to notable corres-
pondents, but maintain the range of abstract thought and practical
suggestion that have placed Jefferson in the foremost rank of the
world's great letter-writers.
JEFFERSON'S WORKS.
MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE GOVERNMENT COLLECTION.
TO HORATIO GATES.
RICHMOND, NOVEMBER 4, 1780.
SIR,-Since my last to you the enemy have with-
drawn their force from the north side of James river
and have taken post at Portsmouth which we are
told they are fortifying. They have been some dis-
tance above Suffolk, but at present have retired below
that place. More accurate information of their force
than we at first had gives us reason to suppose them
from 2,500 to 3,000, of which 60 or 70 are cavalry.
They are commanded by Major-General Leslie and
were conveyed by the Romulus of 40 guns, the
Blonde of 32, the Delight sloop of 16, a 20-gun ship
of John Goodriche's and 2 row gallies conveying a
32-pounder in their bows, commanded by Commo-
dore Gayton. We are not yet assured that they
have landed their whole force ; indeed they give out
themselves that after drawing the force of this State
to Suffolk they mean to go to Baltimore. Their
VOL. XIX-I
2 Jefferson's Works
movements here had induced me to think they came
in expectation of meeting Lord Cornwallis in this
country; that his precipitate retreat has left them
without concerted object and that they wait for
further orders. Information yesterday said that on
being informed of Lord Cornwallis's retreat and a
public paper produced to them, wherein were printed
the dispatches you sent on. that head, they unladed
a vessel and sent her off either to Charleston or New
York. The fate of this army of theirs hangs on a
very slender naval force indeed.
I am, with the greatest esteem and respect, Sir,
your obedient and most humble servant.
TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL.
PARIS, June 22, 1755.
SIR,-Your letter of April 4 came to my hands on
the 16th of that month and was acknowledged by
mine of May 3. That which you did me the honor
to write on the 5th of April never came to hand till
the 10th of May, unwards of a month after the one
of the day before. I have hopes of sending the
present by a Mr. Jarvis who went from hence to Hol-
land some time ago. About this date I suppose him
to be at Brussels and that from thence he will inform
me whether in his way to Madrid he will pass by this
place. If he does, this shall be accompanied by a
cypher for our future use ; if he does not, I must still
await a safe opportunity. Mr. Jarvis is a citizen of
Supplementary Manuscripts 3
the United States, from New York, a gentleman of
intelligence, in the mercantile line, from whom you
will be able to get considerable information of Ameri-
can affairs. I think he left America in January. He
informed us that Congress were about to appoint a
Mr. Lambe of Connecticut their consul to Morocco
and to send him to their ministers commissioned to
treat with the Barbary powers for instructions. Since
that, Mr. Jay inclosed to Mr. Adams, in London, a
resolution of Congress deciding definitely on amicable
treaties with the Barbary States in the usual way and
informing him that he had sent a letter and instruc-
tions to us by a Mr. Lambe. Though it is near three
weeks since we received a communication of this
from Mr. Adams, yet we hear nothing further of Mr.
Lambe. Our powers of treating with the Barbary
States are full, but in the amount of the expense we
are limited. I believe you may safely assure them
that they will soon receive propositions from us, if
you find such an assurance necessary to keep them
quiet. Turning at this instant to your letter dated
April 5 and considering it attentively I am persuaded
it must have been written on the 5th of May. Of
this little mistake I ought to have been sooner sensi-
ble. Our latest letters from America are of the
middle of April and are extremely barren of news.
Congress had not yet proposed a time for their recess
though it was thought a recess would take place.
Mr. Morris had retired and the treasury was actually
administered by commissioners. Their land office
4 Jefferson's Works
was not yet opened. The settlements of Kaskaskia
within the territory ceded to them by Virginia had
prayed the establishment of a regular government
and they were about sending a commissioner to them.
General Knox was appointed their secretary of the
War Office. These I think are the only facts we have
learnt which are worth communicating to you. The
inhabitants of Canada have sent a sensible petition
to their king praying the establishment of an assem-
bly, the benefits of the habeas corpus laws and other
privileges of British subjects. The establishment
of an assembly is denied, but most of their other
desires granted. We are now in hourly expectation
of the arrival of the packet which should have sailed
from New York in May. Perhaps that may bring
us matter which may furnish the subject of a more
interesting letter. In the meantime I have the honor
to be with the highest respect, Sir, your most obedient
and most humble servant.
July 14, 1785. I have thus long waited day after
day hoping to hear from Mr. Jarvis that I might send
a cypher with this, but now give up the hope. No
news yet of Mr. Lambe. The packet is arrived, but
brings no intelligence except that it is doubtful
whether Congress will adjourn this summer. The
Assembly of Pennsylvania propose their bank on
principles of policy.
Supplementary Manuscripts 5
TO FRANCIS HOPKINSON.
PARIs, July 6, 1785.
DEAR SIR,-My last to you was of the 13th of
January. About ten days after that date I received
yours of November 18th ,and about three weeks ago
that of March 28th came, to hand. Soon after the
receipt of the first I published your proposition for
improving the quilling of the harpsicord. I enclose
you a copy of the advertisement. One application
only was made and that was unsuccessful. I do not
despair yet of availing you of it as soon as I can get
acquainted with some of the principal musicians;
but that probably will not be till the beginning of
winter, as all the beau monde leave Paris in the sum-
mer, during which the musical entertainments of a
private nature are suspended. I communicated to
Dr. Franklin your idea of mesmerising the harpsicord.
He has not tried it, probably because his affairs have
been long packed and packing. As I do not play on
that instrument I cannot try it myself.
The Doctor carries with him a pretty little instru-
ment. It is the sticcado, with glass base instead of
wooden ones, and with keys applied to it. Its prin-
cipal defect is the want of extent, having but three
octaves. I wish you would exercise your ingenuity
to give it an upper and a lower octave, by finding out
other substances which will yield tones on those
parts of the scale, bearing a proper affinity to those
of glass bars. The middle octave of this is very
6 Jefferson's Works
sweet. Have you any person on Dr. Franklin's
departure to attend to the receiving and forwarding
your volumes of the Encyclopedic as they come out?
If you have not, be pleased to lay your commands
on me. Do not be anxious about remitting the
prices as it would be a convenience to me to have
some little fund in Philadelphia to answer little pur-
poses. I wrote you for newspapers from thence and
shall hope to begin soon to receive them. The dearth
of American information places us as to our own
country in the silence of the grave. I also petitioned
you to know whether I am yet at liberty to permit a
copy to be taken of General Washington's picture,
because till I am I cannot trust it in the hands of a
painter to be finished. Another petition was for a
copy of our " Battle of the Kegs."
Having slipped the opportunity of sending copies
of my " Notes " .for yourself and Mr. Rittenhouse
when Dr. Franklin's baggage went, T am doubtful
whether he can take them with him. If he can, you
shall receive them by him; if not, then by the first
good opportunity. I am obliged t : pray that they
may not be permitted to get into the hands of the
public till I know whether they will promote or
retard certain reformations in my own country. I
have written to Mr. Madison to inform me on that
head.
No news. A tolerable certainty of peace leaves
us without that unfortunate species of intelligence
which war furnishes. My daughter is well. I
Supplementary Manuscripts 7
enclose a letter from my daughter to Mrs. Hopkinson,
which she wrote four months ago, and has lain by
me till I should write to you. Justice to her obliges
me to take this censure on myself. I take the liberty
of using your cover also for her letter to Miss Hetty
Rittenhouse.
Present my most friendly respects to Mrs. Ritten-
house both of that name, to Mr. Rittenhouse and
family and accept assurances of the esteem with
which I am, dear Sir, your friend and servant.
July 8th. P. S. Since writing the above, yours
of April 20 is put into my hands. I will pray you
to send the newspapers-trimming off the margins-
as the postage is not an object of so much value with
me as the knowing something of what is passing in
my own country. Whenever I find an opportunity
of sending you a copy of my " Notes " I shall send
also the Bibliotheque Physique to you. It is a col-
lection of all the improvements in the arts which have
been made for some time past. Let me add another
commission to those above given you, that is, to pre-
sent mine and my daughter's affectionate remem-
brance to Mrs. House and to Mrs. Trist if she be
returned. From the latter I shall hope for letters
as soon as she returns. I would write to her but for
the uncertainty where she is.
8 Jefferson's Works
TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.
PARIS, July 10, 1785.
DEAR SIR,-Mr. Houdon would much sooner have
the honor of attending you but for a spell of sickness
which long gave us to despair of his reco very and from
which he is but recently recovered. He comes now
for the purpose of lending the aid of his art to trans-
mit you to posterity. He is without rivalship in it,
being employed from all parts of Europe in whatever
is capital. He has had a difficulty to withdraw him-
self from an order of the Empress of Russia a diffi-
culty which arose from a desire to show her respect,
but which never gave him a moment's hesitation
about his present voyage which he considers as
promising the brightest chapter in his history. I
have spoken of him as an artist only; but I can
assure you also that as a man he is disinterested,
generous, candid. and panting after glory ; in every
circumstance meriting your good opinion. He will
have need to see you much while he will have the
honor of being with you, which you can the more
freely admit as his eminence and merit give him
admission into genteel societies here. He will need
an interpreter. I supposed you could procure some
person from Alexandria who might be agreeable to
yourself to perform this office. He brings with him
a subordinate workman or two, who of course will
associate with their own class only.
On receiving the favor of your letter of February
Supplementary Manuscripts 9
25, I communicated the plan for clearing the Poto-
mac, with the act of assembly and an explanation
of its probable advantages, to Mr. Grand, whose
acquaintance and connection with the moneyed men
here enabled him best to try its success. He has
done so, but, to no end. I enclose you his letter. I
am pleased to hear in the meantime that subscrip-
tions were likely to be filled up at home. This is
infinitely better, and will render the proceedings of
the companies much more harmonious. I place an
immense importance to my own country on this
channel of connection with the new western states.
I shall continue uneasy till I know that Virginia has
assumed her ultimate boundary to the westward.
The late example of the State of Franklin separated
from North Carolina increases my anxieties for Vir-
ginia.
The confidence you are so good as to place in me
on the subject of the interest lately given you by
Virginia in the Potomac company is very flattering
to me. But it is distressing also, inasmuch as to
deserve it it obliges me to give my whole opinion.
My wishes to see you made perfectly easy' by receiv-
ing these just returns of gratitude from our country,
to which you are entitled, would induce me to be
contented with saying, what is a certain truth, that
the world would be pleased with seeing them heaped
on you, and would consider your receiving them as
no derogation from your reputation. But I must
own that declining them will add to that reputation
10 Jefferson's Works
as it will show that your motives have been pure and
without any alloy. This testimony, however, is not
wanting either to those who know you or who do not.
I must therefore repeat that I think the receiving
them will not in the least lessen the respect of the
world if from any circumstances they would be con-
venient to you. The candor of my communication
will find its justification, I know, with you.
A tolerable certainty of peace leaves little interest-
ing in the way of intelligence. Holland and the
Emperor will be quiet; if anything is brewing, it is
between the latter and the Porte. Nothing in pros-
pect as yet from England; we shall bring them,
however, to decision now that Mr. Adams is received
there. I wish much to hear that the canal through
Dismal is resumed€
TO ST. JOHN DE CREVECOEUR.
PARIS, August 22, 1785
SIR,-I have duly received your favor of the 15th
instant as I had before done that of May 18, but had
not answered it, supposing you would be on your
' passage. Mr. Mazzei delivered safely the packet you
mention. I should have been happy to have seen
you here ; but we are not to expect that pleasure, it
seems, till the fall. The derangement of the packet
boats will need your aid ; and there are doubtless
other circumstances here which may be improved
by your presence. The loss sustained by your
Supplementary Manuscripts 11
friend the Countess d'Houdetot in the death of her
brother, has doubtless been participated by you as
by all others of his and her acquaintance. I had
become of that number just early enough to take a
share in it which I did very sincerely.
The confinement of the Cardinal de Rohan in the
Bastile has doubtless reached you. The public is
not yet possessed of the truth of his story, but from
his character and all other circumstances I have
little doubt that the final decision must be against
him.
My daughter is well and thanks you for your kind
enquiries. I hope you found all your family and
friends well. I am with great esteem, dear Sir, your
most obedient and humble servant.
TO JAMES CURRIE.
PARIs, September 27, 1785
DEAR SIR,-Your favor of August 5th came to
hand on the 18th instant, and I mark well what you
say, " that my letters shall be punctually answered. "
This is encouraging, and the more so as it proves to
you that in sending your letters in time to arrive at
New York the middle of the month, when the French
packet sails, they get to hand very speedily. The
last was but six weeks from you to me. I thank you
again and again for the details it contains, these
being precisely of the nature I would wish. Of politi-
cal correspondents I can find enough, but I can per-
12 Jefferson's Works
suade nobody to believe that the small facts which
they see passing daily under their eyes are precious
to me at this distance ; much more interesting to the
heart than events of higher rank. Fancy to yourself
a being who is withdrawn from his connections of
blood, of marriage, of friendship, of acquaintance in
all their gradations, who for years should hear nothing
of what has passed among them, who returns again
to see them and finds the one-half dead. This strikes
him like a pestilence sweeping off the half of man-
kind. Events which had they come to him one by
one and in detail he would have weathered as other
people do, when presented to his mind all at once
are overwhelming. Continue then to give me facts,
little facts, such as you think every one imagines
beneath notice, and your letters will be the most
precious to me. They will place me in imagination
in my own country, and they will place me where I
am happiest. But what shall I give you in return?
Political events are scarcely interesting to a man
who looks on them from high ground. There is
always war in one place, revolution in another, pesti-
lence in a third, interspersed with spots of quiet.
These chequers shift places but they do not vanish,
so that to an eye which extends itself over the whole
earth there is always uniformity of prospect. ,
For the moment Europe is clear of war. The
Emporor and Dutch have signed articles. These are
not published; but it is believed the Emperor gets
ten millions of florins, the navigation of the Scheld
Supplementary Manuscripts 13
to Saptinghen, and two forts, so that your conjecture
is verified and the Dutch actually pay the piper. The
league formed in the Germanic body by the King of
Russia is likely to circumscribe the ambitious views
of the Emperor on that side and there seems to be
no issue for them but on the side of the Turk. Their
demarkation does not advance. It is a pity the
Emperor would not confine himself to internal regu-
lation. In that way he has done much good. One
would think it not so difficult to discover that the
improvement of the country we possess is the surest
means .of increasing our wealth and power. This,
too, promotes the happiness of mankind while the
others destroy it and are always uncertain of their
object. England seems not to permit our friendship
to enter into her political calculations as an article of
any value. Her endeavor is not how to recover our
affections or to bind us to her by alliance, but by
what new experiments she may keep up an existence
without us; thus leaving us to carry our full
weight, present and future, into the scale of her
enemy. and seeming to prefer our enmity to our
neutrality.
The Barbary corsairs have committed depreda-
tionson us. The Emperor of Morocco took a vessel
last winter which he has since restored with the crew
and cargo. The Algerines took two vessels in July.
These are the only captures which were known of
at Algiers on the 24th of August. I mention this
because the English papers would make the world
14 Jefferson's Works
believe we have lost an infinite number. I hope soon
to be able to inform our countrymen that these
dangers are ceased
There is little here to communicate in the arts and
sciences. The great desideratum which was to render
the discovery of the balloon useful, is not absolutely
desperate. There are two artists at Javel, about four
miles from here, who are able to rise and fall at will
without expending their gas, and to deflect 45 degrees from
the course of the wind. The investigations of air
and fire which have latterly so much occupied the
chemists,have not presented anything very interest-
ing for some time past.
I send you four books, Rolend, Sigaud de la Fond,
Metherie, and Scheele, which will put you in posses-
sion of whatever has been discovered as yet on that
subject. They are packed in a trunk directed to J.
Madison of Orange, which will be carried to Rich-
mond. They are in French, which you say you do
not understand well. You lose infinitely by this,
as you may be assured that the publications in that
language at present far exceed those of England in
science. With respect to the Encyclopedic it is
impossible for me to judge whether to send it to you
or not, as I do not know your degree of knowledge
in the language nor your intentions as to increasing
it. Of this you must decide for yourself and instruct
me accordingly.
I was unlucky as to the partridges, pheasants,
hares and rabbits which I had ordered to Virginia.
Supplementary Manuscripts 15
The vessel in which I came over was to have returned
to Virginia and to Warwick. I knew I could rely on
the captain's care. A fellow-passenger undertook
to provide them. He did so, but the destination of
the vessel was changed and the poor colonists all died
while my friend was looking out for another convey-
ance.
If I can be useful to your circulating library, the
members may be assured of my zealous services. All
books except English, Latin and Greek are bought
here for about two-thirds of what they cost in Eng-
land. They had better distribute their invoices
accordingly. .I must trouble you to present assur-
ances of my friendship to Mr. and Mrs. Randolph of
Tuckahoe, Mr. Cary, and their families. My attach-
ment to them is sincere. I wish I could render them
useful to them. Tell Mr. Cary I shall enjoy a very
real pleasure whenever he shall carry his intentions
of writing me into execution and that there is no one
who more fervently wishes him well.
Accept yourself assurances of the esteem with
which I am, dear Sir, your friend and servant.
TO REVEREND JAMES MADISON.
FONTAINEBLEAU, Oct. 28, 1785
DEAR SIR,-Seven o'clock, and retired to my fire-
side, I have determined to enter into conversation
with you. This is a village of about 15,000 inhab-
itants when the court is not here, and 20,000 when
16 Jefferson's Works
they are, occupying a valley through which runs a
brook and on each side of it a ridge of small moun-
tains, most of which are naked rock. The King comes
here, in the fall always, to hunt. His court attend
him, as do also the foreign diplomatic corps ; but as
this is not indispensably required and my finances do
not admit the expense of a continued residence here,
I propose to come occasionally to attend the King's
levees, returning again to Paris, distant forty miles.
This being the first trip, I set out yesterday morning
to take a view of the place. For this purpose I
shaped my course towards the highest of the moun-
tains in sight, to the top of which was about a league
As soon as I had got clear of the town I fell in with
a poor woman walking at the same rate with myself
and going the same course. Wishing to know the
condition of the laboring poor I entered into conver-
sation with her, which I began by enquiries for the
path which would lead me into the mountain: and
thence proceeded to enquiries into her vocation, con-
dition and circumstances. She told me she was a day
laborer at 8 sous or 4d. sterling the day : that she had
two children to maintain, and to pay a rent of 30
livres for her house (which would consume the hire
of 75 days), that often she could get no employment
and of course was without bread. As we had walked
together near a mile and she had so far served me as
a guide, I gave her, on parting, 24 sous. She burst
into tears of a gratitude which I could perceive was
unfeigned because she was unable to utter a word.
Supplementary Manuscripts 17
She had probably never before received so great an
aid. This little attendrissement, with the solitude of
my walk, led me into a train of reflections on that
unequal division of property which occasions the
numberless instances of wretchedness which I had
observed in this country and is to be observed all over
Europe.
The property of this country is absolutely con-
centred in a very few hands, having revenues of from
half a million of guineas a year downwards. These
employ the flower of the country as servants, some
of them having as many as 200 domestics, not labor-
ing. They employ also a great number of manufac-
turers and tradesmen; and lastly the class of laboring
husbandmen. But after all there comes the most
numerous of all classes, that is, the poor who
cannot find work. I asked myself what could be the
reason so many should be permitted to beg who are
willing to work, in a country where there is a very
considerable proportion of uncultivated lands ? These
lands are undisturbed only for the sake of game. it
should seem then that it must be because of the enor-
mous wealth of the proprietors which places them
above attention to the increase of their revenues by
permitting these lands to be labored. I am con-
scious that an equal division of property is imprac-
ticable, but the consequences of this 'enormous
inequality producing so much misery to the bulk
of mankind, legislators cannot invent too many
devices for subdividing property, only taking care
VOL. XIX-2
18 Jefferson's Works
to let their subdivisions go hand in hand with the
natural affections of the human mind. The descent
of property of every kind therefore to all the children,
or to all the brothers and sisters, or other relations in
equal degree, is a politic measure and a practicable
one. Another means of silently lessening the in-
equality of property is to exempt all from taxation
below a certain point, and to tax the higher portions
or property in geometrical progression as they rise.
Whenever there are in any country uncultivated lands
and unemployed poor, it is clear that the laws of
property have been so far extended as to violate
natural right. The earth is given as a common stock
for man to labor and live on. If for the encourage-
ment of industry we allow it to be appropriated, we
must take care that other employment be provided
to those excluded from the appropriation. If we do
not, the fundamental right to labor the earth returns
to the unemployed. It is too soon yet in our country
to say that every man who cannot find employment,
but who can find uncultivated land, shall be at liberty
to cultivate it, paying a moderate rent. But it is
not too soon to provide by every possible means that
as few as possible shall be without a little portion of
land. The small landholders are the most precious
part of a state.
The next object which struck my attention in my
walk was the deer with which the wood abounded.
They were of the kind called " Cerfs, " and not exactly
of the same species with ours. They are blackish
Supplementary Manuscripts 19
indeed under the belly, and not white as ours, and
they are more of the chestnut red; but these are
such small differences as would be sure to happen
in two races from the same stock breeding separately
a number of ages. Their hares are totally different
from the animals we call by that name; but their
rabbit is almost exactly like him. The only differ-
ence is in their manners ; the land on which I walked
for some time being absolutely reduced to a honey-
comb by their burrowing. I think there is no
instance of ours burrowing. After descending the
hill again I saw a man cutting fern. I went to him
under pretence of asking the shortest road to town,
and afterwards asked for what use he was cutting
fern. He told me that this part of the country fur-
nished a great deal of fruit to Paris. That when
packed in straw it acquired an ill taste, but that dry
fern preserved it perfectly without communicating
any taste at all.
I treasured this observation for the preservation
of my apples on my return to my own country. They
have no apples here to compare with our Redtown
pippin. They have nothing which deserves the
name of a peach ; there being not sun enough to ripen
the plum-peach and the best of their soft peaches
being like our autumn peaches. Their cherries and
strawberries are fair, but I think lack flavor. Their
plums I think are better; so also their gooseberries,
and the pears infinitely beyond anything we possess.
They have nothing better than our sweet-water ; but
20 Jefferson's Works
they have a succession of as good from early in the
summer till frost. I am to-morrow to get (to) M.
Malsherbes (and uncle of the Chevalier Luzerne's)
about seven leagues from hence, who is the most
curious man in France as to his trees. He is making
for me a collection of the vines from which the Bur-
gundy, Champagne, Bordeaux, Frontignac, and
other of the most valuable wines of this country are
made. Another gentleman is collecting for me the
best eating grapes, including what we call the raisin.
I propose also to endeavor to colonize their hare,
rabbit, red and grey partridge, pheasants of different
kinds, and some other birds. But I find that I am
wandering beyond the limits of my walk and will
therefore bid vou adieu. Yours affectionately.
TO FRANCIS EPPES.
PARIs, December 11, 1785.
DEAR SIR,-I wrote you by Mr. Fitzhugh Aug. 30
and to Mrs. Eppes by the same conveyance Sept. 22;
in those as in my former letters I had troubled you
on the subject of sending my daughter to me. To the
cautions then suggested I am obliged to add another,
which our situation with respect to the Barbary
powers calls for. You have doubtless heard loose
stories as to their captures on us without being able
to know the certainty. The truth is that the Empe-
ror of Morocco took one vessel from us the last winter,
but he did it merely to induce us to treat. He took
Supplementary Manuscripts 21
care of the crew, vessel and cargo and delivered the
whole up for us to the Spanish coast, clothing the
crew well. There is nothing further to be feared from
him, as I think he will settle matters with us on toler-
able terms.
But the Algerines this fall took two vessels from
us and now have twenty-two of our citizens in.
slavery. Their dispositions are more hostile and
they very possibly will demand a higher tribute
than America will pay. In this event they will
commit depredations on our trade next summer.
I do not think the insurance against them on vessels
coming to France will be worth one-half per cent,
but who can estimate the value of a half per cent on
the fate of a child? My mind revolts at the possi-
bility of a capture, so that unless you hear from
myself-not trusting the information of any other
person on earth-that peace is made with the Alge-
rines, do not send her but in a vessel of French or
English property; for these vessels alone are safe
from prize by the barbarians. Mr. Barclay, our
consul here, expects to go to Philadelphia in the
spring and to return again here. He offers to take
charge of her. She would be then in the best hands
possible and should the time of his return become
well ascertained I will write you on the subject. In
the meantime it need not prevent your embracing
any opportunity which occurs of a sound French or
English ship, neither new nor old, sailing in the
months of April, May, June or July, under the care
22 Jefferson's Works
of a trusty person. You see how much trouble I
give you till I get this little charge out of your hands.
Europe is quiet. The treaty between the Emperor
and Dutch signed, and one between France and the
Dutch, very fatal to England. It is called a defen-
sive treaty only, but it is such a one as cannot but
give to France the aid of the Dutch in case of war
with England. Patsy enjoys a perfect state of
health; mine is become more firm. If I continue
through the winter as well as I am now I shall resume
confidence in my constitution. Mr. Short is at
present indisposed with the jaundice. We all pant
for America as will every American who comes to
Europe. Present -us affectionately to Mrs. Eppes
and the little ones. I make her always the bearer
of my kisses to dear Poll. Assure Mrs. and Mr.
Skipwith also of our love and believe me to be, with
the highest esteem, dear Sir, your sincere friend and
servant.
P. S. I saw in a Virginia paper that somebody
gave me as the author of information that we had
nothing to fear from the Algerines. No such infor-
mation ever went from me. The writer probably.
had not distinguished between the pirates of Algiers
and Morocco. Of the peaceful disposition of the
latter I have written, but never of the former.
Supplementary Manuscripts 23
TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.
PaRIs, January 4, 1786.
SIR,-I have been honored with your letter of
September 26, which was delivered me by Mr. Hou-
don, who is safely returned. He has brought with
him a mould of the face only, having left the other
parts of his work with his workmen to come by some
other conveyance. Doctor Franklin, who was joined
with me in the superintendence of this just monu-
ment, having left us before what is called the costume
of the statue was decided on, I cannot so well satisfy
myself as I am persuaded I should not so Well satisfy
the world as by consulting your own wish or inclina-
tion as to this arrangement. Permit me, therefore,
to ask you whether there is any particular dress or
any particular attitude which you would rather wish
to be adopted? I shall take a singular pleasure in
having your own idea executed if you will be so good
as to make it known to me.
I thank you for the trouble you have taken in
answering my inquiries on the subject of Bushnel's
machine. Colonel Humphreys could only give me
a general idea of it from the effects produced rather
than the means contrived to produce them.
I sincerely rejoice that three such works as the
opening the Potomac, the James river, Virginia canal
from the Dismal, are like to be carried through.
There is still a fourth, however, which I had the
honor, I believe, of mentioning to you in a letter of
24 Jefferson's Works
March 15, 1784, from Annapolis. It is the cutting a
canal which shall unite the heads of Cayahoga and
the Beaver creek. The, utility of this and even the
necessity of it, if we mean to aim at the trade of the
lakes, will be palpable to you. The only question is
its practicability. The best information I could get
as to this was from General Hand, who described the
country as champaign and these waters as heading
in lagoons which would be easily united. Maryland
and Pennsylvania are both interested to concur with
us in this work.
The institutions you propose to establish by the
shore in the Potomac. and James river companies,
given you by the assembly, and the particular objects
of these institutions are most worthy. It occurs to
me, however, that if the bill for the more general
diffusion of knowledge which is in the revisal should
be passed, it would supersede the use and obscure
the existence of the charity schools you have thought
of. I' suppose in fact that that bill, or some other
like it, will be passed. I never saw one received with
more enthusiasm than that was by the House of
Delegates in the year 1778 and ordered to €be printed
and it seemed afterwards that nothing but the
extreme distress of our resources prevented it being
carried into execution even during the war. It is an
axiom in my mind that our liberty can never be safe
but in the hands of the people themselves, and that;
too, of the people with a certain degree of instruction.
This it is the business of the state to effect, and on a
Supplementary Manuscripts 25
general plan. Should you see a probability of this,
however, you can never be at a loss for worthy objects
of this donation. Even the remitting that propor-
tion of the toll on all articles transported would
present itself under many favorable considerations,
and it would in effect be to make the state do, in a
certain proportion, what they ought to have done
wholly ; for I think they should clear all the rivers
and lay them open and free to all. However, you
are infinitely the best judge how the most good may
be effected with these shares.
All is quiet here. There are, indeed, two specks
in the horizon, the exchange of Bavaria and the
demarcation between the Emperor and Turks. We
may add as a third the interference by the King of
Prussia in the domestic disputes of the Dutch. Great
Britain, it is said, begins to look towards us with a
little more good humor. But how true this may
be I cannot say with certainty. We are trying to
render her commerce as little necessary to us as pos-
sible by finding other markets for our produce. A
most favorable reduction of duties on whale oil has
taken place here, which will give us a vent for that
article, paying a duty of a guinea and a half a tun
only.
I have the honor to be, with the highest esteem and
respect, dear Sir, your most obedient and most hum-
ble servant.
26 Jefferson's Works
TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL.
PARIS, January 13, 1786.
DEAR SIR,-I had the honor of receiving on the
1st instant your favor of Dec. 17. I had before that,
in a letter of Dec. 8, explained to you the cause of
the bill not being paid which appeared here in your
name, so far as I had been obliged to meddle in it.
My letter to Mr. Grand which I inclosed to you will
have shown you that I advised him to follow what
had been his practice as to your bills. I do assure
you, Sir, most solemnly that as to myself no question
ever arose in my mind but whether the bill was
genuine or not; and that had that been ascertained
I should never have presumed to doubt the propriety
of the draught. Of that you alone are the judge in
my opinion and accountable to nobody but Congress ;
but least of all to me who have nothing to do with the
application of the moneys here and am only forced
into the temporary interference by Mr. Grand's
refusal to pay anything but on my order. I have
sent representations on this subject to the board of
the treasury, and shall expect ere long to communi-
cate their orders to Mr. Grand for exercising this
office himself according to the rules they shall lay
down for his government.
The mention made in your letter of some articles
of expense occasions me to observe to you that post-
age and couriers are allowed to be charged by an
express resolution of Congress. That etrennes and
Supplementary Manuscripts 27
house-rent have likewise been charged by the minis-
ters and allowed in the settlement of their accounts.
I conceive that illuminations and gala may with some
propriety be charged. I think it is the universal
custom tb allow all ministers charges of these descrip-
tions. I think Dr. Franklin told me he had made
diligent enquiry here of the diplomatic corps and had
only charged those things which were sanctioned by
general usage in the diplomatic accounts. I take the
liberty of mentioning these things to you that the
want of information may not occasion you to place
yourself on a worse footing than that on which you
have just title to stand. At the same time I will pray
you to make use of the information only for the erect-
ing of your accounts, as I should be unwilling to be
named as the author of an advice in which I might
seem to be interested. I omitted to observe on the
subject of your bill of exchange that I have not had
an opportunity of recurring to the letters written by
yourself and Mr. Grand to which you refer me. We
have been in expectation of receiving a renewal of
the bill and that you would be so good as to accom-
pany it with a letter of advice, a precaution which
the innumerable forgeries of this city are thought to
render necessary even in private cases.
I suppose you will have heard that Dr. Franklin
is appointed President of Pennsylvania and has
accepted the office. Houdon went over on account
of the State of Virginia to take the moulds of General
Washington in order to make his statue. He is
,
28 Jefferson's Works
returned. He tells me that he heard of the safe
arrival of the ass which the King of Spain had been
so generous as to send to the General. He could not
tell me where he was arrived. A letter from General
Washington of Nov. 2 informs me that of L50,000
sterling necessary for opening the Potomac, L44,000
was actually made up and no fear of procuring the
balance so that the work is begun. The whole money
for opening James river is made up. This is the only
American news I have worth communicating.
This government has lately reduced the duties on
American whale oil to a guinea and a half a tun which
will draw that commerce from London wholly to this
country. Mr. Adams having made complaint to the
court of London of the ill behavior of Captain Stan-
hope I am informed though not from him that they
disavow his conduct and have severely reprimanded
him and given this official information to Mr. Adams.
He also required a re-delivery of our prisoners sent
to the East Indies. They have informed him that
they have given orders for their being brought back.
Mr. Barclay will have the honor of delivering you this
and of supplying any intelligence I may omit. I am
sure you will give him all the aid in your power as
to his object. Accept from me assurances of the
sincere esteem with which I have the honor to
be, dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble
servant.
Supplementary Manuscripts 29
TO JAMES MADISON.
LONDON, April 25, 1786.
DEAR SIR,-Some of the objects of the joint com-
mission with which we were honored by Congress
called me to this place about six weeks ago. To-
morrow I set out on my return to Paris. With this
nation nothing is done and it is now decided that
they intend to do nothing with us. The King is
against a change of measures, his ministers are
against it, some from principle, others from attach-
ment to their places, and the merchants and people
are against it. They sufficiently value our com-
merce, but they are quite persuaded they shall enjoy
it on their own terms. This political speculation
fosters the warmest feeling in the King's heart, that
is his hatred to us. If ever he should be forced to
make any terms with us it will be by events which
he does not foresee. He takes no pains at present
to hide his aversion. Our commission expiring m a
fortnight there is an end of all further attempts on our
part to arrange matters between the two countries.
The treaty of peace being yet unexecuted it remains
that each party conduct themselves as the combined
considerations of justice and of caution require.
We have had conversations on the subject of
our debts with the chairman of the committee of
American merchants here. He was anxious for
arrangements. He was sensible that it was for the
interest of the creditors as well as debtors to allow
i
30 Jefferson's Works
time for the payment of the debts due to this country
and did not seem to think the time taken by Virginia
was more than enough. But we could not help
agreeing with him that the courts should be open
to them immediately, judgments recoverable, the
executions to be divided into so many equal and
annual parts as will admit the whole to be paid by
the year 1790 and that the payments should be in
money and not in anything else. IE our law is not
already on this footing I wish extremely it were put
on it.
When we proceeded to discuss the sum which
should be paid we concurred in thinking that the
principal and interest preceding and subsequent to
the war should be paid. As to interest during the
war the chairman thought it justly demandable ; we
thought otherwise. I need not recapitulate to you
the topics of arguments on each side. He said the
renunciation of this interest was a bitter pill which
they could not swallow. Perhaps he would have
agreed to say nothing about it, not expecting to
receive it in most cases, yet willing to take the chance
of it where debtors or juries should happen to be
favorably disposed. We should have insisted on
an express declaration that this interest should not
be demandable. These conferences were intended
as preparatory to authoritative propositions, but the
minister not condescending to meet us at all on the
subject they ended in nothing. I think the mer-
chants here do not expect to recover interest during
Supplementary Manuscripts 31
the war in general though they are of opinion they
are entitled to it.
I wrote you in a former letter on the subject of a
Mr. Paradise who owns an estate in Virginia in right
of his wife and who has a considerable sum due him
in our loan office. Since I came here I have had
opportunity of knowing his extreme personal worth
and his losses by the lace war. He is from principle
a pure republican while his father was as warm a tory.
His attachment to the American cause and his candid
warmth brought him sometimes into altercations on
the subject with his father, and some persons inter-
ested in their variance artfully brought up this sub-
ject of conversation whenever they met. It pro-
duced a neglect in the father. He had already settled
on him a sum of money in the funds, but would do no
more and probably would have undone that if he
could. When remittances from Virginia were for-
bidden the profits of the Virginia estate were carried
into our loan office. Paradise was then obliged to
begin to eat his capital in England; from that to
part with conveniences and to run in debt.
His situation is now distressing and would be com-
pletely relieved could he receive what is due him from
our state. He is coming over to settle there. His
wife and family will follow him. I never ask unjust
preferences for anybody ; but if by any just means he
can be helped to his money, I own I would be much
gratified. The goodness of his heart, his kindness
to Americans before, during and since the war, the
32 Jefferson's Works
purity of his political and moral character, interest
me in the events pending over him arid which will
infallibly be ruinous if he fails to receive his money.
I ask of you on his behalf that in pursuing the path
of right you will become active for him instead of
being merely quiescent were his merit and his mis-
fortunes unknown to you.
I have put into the hands of Mr. Fulwar Skipwith
for you a packet containing some catalogues which
he will forward. I am with sincere esteem, ' dear Sir,
your friend and servant.
TO PHILIP MAZZEI.
MARSEILLES, April 4, 1787
DEAR SIR; I have had the pleasure of finding your
friend Soria alive, and one of the most considerable
merchants here. I delivered him your letter and he
has shown me all the attentions which the state of
his mind would permit. A few days before my
arrival his only son had eloped with jewels and
money to the value of ,40,000 livres and I believe
is not yet heard of. He speaks of you with friend-
ship and will be happy to see you on your way south-
wardly. He has promised to make me acquainted
with a well-informed gardener whom I expect to find
among the most precious of my acquaintances. From
men of that class I have derived the most satisfactory
information in the course of my journey and have
sought their acquaintance with as much industry as
Supplementary Manuscripts 33
I have avoided that of others who would have made
me waste my time (illegible] good society. For these
objects one need not leave Paris. I find here several
interesting articles of culture; the best [illegible]
the best grapes for drying, a smaller [illegible] the
same purposes without a seed, from Smyrna, olives,
capers, pistachio nuts, almonds. All these articles
may succeed on or southward of the Chesapeake.
From hence my inclination would lead me no further
[illegible] as I. am to see little more than a rocky
coast. But I am [illegible) here with the hopes of
finding something useful in the rice-fields of Pied-
mont, which are said to be but a little way beyond
the Alps. It will probably be the middle of June
before I get back to Paris. In the meantime I wish
to observe that if this absence, longer than you had
calculated, should render an earlier pecuniary supply
necessary, lodge a line for me at Aix poste restant
where I shall find it about the last of this month and
I shall with great pleasure do what may be needful
for you.
Be so good as to present my respects to the Maison
de ia Rochefoucault and accept yourself my sincere
assurances of esteem and regard from, dear Sir, your
affectionate friend and humble servant.
VOL. xix-3
34 Jefferson's Works
TO LABBE D'ARNAL.
PARIS, July 9, 1787
DEAR SIR,-I had the honor of informing you when
at Nismes that we had adopted in America a method
of hanging the upper stone of a grist mill which had
been found so much more convenient than the
ancient as to have brought it into general use.
Whether we derive the invention from Europe or
have made it ourselves I am unable to say. The
difference consists only in the spindle and horns.
On the former plan the horns were of a single piece
of iron in the form of a cross with a square hole in
the middle, which square hole fitted on the upper end
of the spindle. The horns were then fixed in cross
grooves in the bottom of the upper stone which was
to be laid on the spindle so as that the place of its
grinding surface would be perfectly perpendicular
to the spindles. This was a difficult and tedious
operation and was to be repeated every time the
stones were dressed. According to our method two
distinct pieces of iron are substituted for the horns.
The one in this form a of such breadth
and thickness as to support the whole weight of the
stone. Its straight ends are to be firmly fixed in one
of the cross grooves of the stone, the circular part
should rise through the hole in the center of the
stone so as to be near its upper surface ; in the middle
of this semicircular part and on the under surface-
Supplementary Manuscripts 35
at " 'a '-should be a dimple to which the upper end of
the spindle should be adjusted by giving it a convexity
fitted? to the concavity of the dimple. The other piece
of iron is only a straight bar to be firmly fixed in
the other of the cross grooves of the stone and to
have a square hole in its center, thus : --o- --
the corresponding part of the spindle must be squared
to fit this hole. The office of the first piece of iron
is to suspend the stone, that of the last is to give and
continue its motion. The stones being dressed and
these pieces firmly fixed in it, it is turned over on
the spindle so that the point of the spindle may enter
the dimple of the semicircular iron, and the stone
be suspended on it freely. It will probably not take
at first its true position, which is that of the plane of
its grinding surface being truly perpendicular to the
spindle.
The workman must, therefore, chip it at the top
with a chisel till it hangs in that just position. This
being once done it is done forever ; for whenever they
dress the stone afterwards they have only to return
the upper one to its point and it will resume its
equilibrium. It sometimes happens that one side
of the stone being softer than the other wears faster
and so the equilibrium is lost in time. Experience
has shown that a small departure from the equili-
brium will be rectified by the bed stone which serves
as a guide to the running stone till it assumes its
motion in a true plane which it will afterwards keep.
36 Jefferson's Works
But should a defect of the stone render this departure
from the equilibrium too considerable it may be
necessary to set it to rights at certain periods by
chipping it again on the top. I had promised, when
I had the honor of seeing you at Nismes, to send you
a model of this manner of fixing the mill-stones, but
the expense of sending a model by post, the danger
of its being lost or destroyed by the messagerie, and
the hope that I could render it intelligible by a
description and figures, have induced me to prefer
the latter method. I shall with great pleasure give
any further explanations which may be necessary for
your perfect comprehension of it, and the more so
as it will furnish me with new occasions of assuring
you of those sentiments of respect and esteem with
which I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient
and most humble servant.
TO JOHN ADAMS.
PARIS, July 23, 1797
DEAR SIR--Frouille, the bookseller here who is
engaged in having your book translated and printed,
understanding that you are about publishing a sequel
to it, has engaged me to be the channel of his prayers
to you to favor his operation by transmitting hither
the sheets of the sequel as they shall be printed ; and
he will have them translated by the same hand,
which is a good one.
It is necessary for one to explain the passage in
Supplementary Manuscripts 37
Mr. Barclay's letter of July 13 of which he writes me
he had sent you a duplicate wherein he mentions that
I had given him a full dispensation from waiting on
you in London. Mr. Barclay was arrested in Bor-
deaux for debt and put into prison. The Parliament
released him after five days on the footing of his
being consul and minister from the United States to
Morocco. His adversaries applied here to deprive
him of his privilege. I spoke on the subject to the
minister. He told me that the character of consul
was no protection at all from private arrest, but that
he would try to avail him of the other character. I
found, however, that the event might be doubtful
and stated the whole in a letter to Mr. Barclay,
observing at the same time that I knew of nothing
which rendered it necessary for him to come to Paris
before his departure for America. He determined,
therefore, to go to America immediately, which
indeed was his wisest course as he would have been
harassed immediately by his creditors.
Our funds here have been out some time and Mr.
Grand is at the length of his tether in advancing for
us. He has refused very small demands for current
occasions and I am not clear he will not refuse my
usual one for salary. He has not told me so, but I
am a little diffident of it. I shall know in a few days
whether he does or not. I cannot approve of his
protesting small and current calls. Having had
nothing to do with any other banker I cannot say
what their practice is, but I suppose it their practice
38 Jefferson's Works
to advance for their customers when their funds
happen to be out in proportion to the sums which
they pass through their hands. Mr. Grand is a very
sure banker, but a very timid one, and I fear he thinks
it possible that he may lose his advances for the
United States. Should he reject my draught, would
there be any prospect of its being answered in Hol-
land? Merely for my own and Mr. Short's salaries,
say 4,500 livres a month? You will have heard that
the Emperor has put troops into march on account
of the disturbances in Brabant. The situation of
affairs in Holland you know better than I do. How
will they end ? I have the honor to be, with senti-
ments of the most profound esteem and respect, dear
Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant.
TO BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.
PARIS, August 6, 1787.
DEAR SIR,-This will be handed you by Doctor
Gibbons, a young gentleman who after studying
physic and taking his degrees at Edinburgh has
passed some time ,here. He has desired the honor
of being known to you, and I find a pleasure in being
the instrument of making him so. It is a tax to
which your celebrity submits you. Every man of
the present age will wish to have the honor of having
known, and being known to you. You will find
Doctor Gibbons to possess learning, genius and merit.
A.s such I ask leave to present him to you, and of
Supplementary Manuscripts 39
assuring you at the same time of the sentiments of
profound respect and esteem, with which I have the
honor to be your Excellency's most obedient and
most humble servant.
TO JOHN ADAMS.
PARIS, December 31, 1787.
DEAR SIR,-Mr. Parker furnishes me an oppor-
tunity of acknowledging the receipt of your favors of
November I o, December 6, 10, 18, and 25, which I
avoid doing through post. The orders on the sub-
ject of our captives at Algiers have come to me by
the last packet. They are to be kept secret even
from the captives themselves lest a knowledge of
the interference of government should excite to
extravagant demands. The settlement of the prices
in the first instance is important as a precedent.
Willincks and Van Staphorsts answered that they
had money enough to pay the February interest and
our draughts for salary for some time, but that the
payment of Fiseaux's capital would oblige them to
advance of their own money. They observed, too,
that the payment of such a sum without the orders
of the treasury would lay them under an unnecessary
responsibility. I therefore concluded the business
by desiring them to pay the year's interest becoming
due to-morrow and paying Mr. Fiseaux to quiet the
lenders with that till I could procure the orders of
the treasury to whom I wrote immediately an account
40 Jefferson's Works
of the whole transaction. I was the better satisfied
with this on receiving your letter of the z 5th by which
I find it your opinion that our credit may not suffer
so materially. The declining the payment came
from the Willincks, the Van Staphorsts having
offered to advance their money. I enclose you a
letter I have received from the Comptroller General
and an asset on the subject of our commerce. They
are the proof sheets, as, at the moment of my writing
my letter I have not yet received the fair ones, but
the French columns are correct enough to be under-
stood. I would wish them not to be public till they
are made so on the other side of the water. I think
the alliance of this court with the two imperial ones
is going on well. You will have heard of the Em-
peror's having attempted to surprise Belgrade and
failed in the attempt. This necessarily engaged him
in the war and so tends to continue it. I think it
settled that this court abandons the Turks.
Mr. Parker takes charge of the ten ounces of double
Florence for Mrs. Adams, the silk stockings are not
yet ready. I had ordered them to be made by the
hermits of Mont Calvaire who are famous for the
excellence and honesty of their work and prices.
They will come by the first good opportunity. Be
so good as to present my respects to her and to be
assured of the sineere attachment and respect of,
dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble
servant.
Supplementary Manuscripts 41
TO EDWARD BANCROFT.
PARIS, January 26, 1788.
DEAR SIR,-I have deferred answering your letter
on the subject of slaves because you permitted me
to do it till a moment of leisure, and that moment
rarely comes, and because, too, I could not answer
you with such a degree of certainty as to merit
any notice. I do not recollect the conversation
at Vincennes to which you allude, but can repeat
still on the same ground on which I must have done
then that as far as I can judge from the experiments
Which have been made to give liberty to, or rather
abandon, persons whose habits have been formed in
slavery is like abandoning children. Many Quakers
in Virginia seated their slaves on their lands as ten-
ants; they were distant from me, and therefore I
cannot be particular in the details because I never
had very particular information. I cannot say
whether they were to pay a rent in money or a share
of the produce, but I remember that the landlord was
obliged to plan their crops for them, to direct all their
operations during every season and according to the
weather ; but what is more afflicting, he was obliged
to watch them daily and almost constantly to make
them work and even to whip them. A man's moral
sense must be unusually strong if slavery does not
make him a thief. He who is permitted by law to
have no property of his own can with difficulty con-
ceive that property is founded in anything but force.
42 Jefferson's Works
These slaves chose to steal from their neighbors
rather than work ; they became public nuisances and
in most instances were reduced to slavery again.
But I will beg of you to make no use of this imperfect
information (unless in common conversation). I
shall go to America in the spring and return in the
fall. During my stay in Virginia I shall be in the
neighborhood where many of these trials were made.
I will inform myself very particularly of them and
communicate the information to you.
Besides these there is an instance since I came
away of a young man (Mr. Mays) who died and
gave freedom to all his slaves, about zoo; this is
about a year ago. I shall know how they have
turned out. Notwithstanding the discouraging re-
sult of these experiments I am decided on my final
return to America to try this one. I shall endeavor
to import as many Germans as I have grown slaves.
I will settle them and my slaves on farms of fifty
acres each, intermingled, and place all on the footing
of the Metayers (Medictani) of Europe. Their chil-
dren shall be brought up as others are in habits of
property and foresight, and I have no doubt but that
' they will be good citizens. Some of their fathers will
be so, others I suppose will need government; with
these all that can be done is to oblige them to
labor as the laboring poor of Europe do, and to
apply to their comfortable subsistence the produce
of their labor, retaining such a moderate portion of
it as may be a just equivalent for the use of the
Supplementary Manuscripts 43
lands they labor and the stocks and other necessary
advances.
A word now on Mr. Paradise's affairs. You were
informed at the time of the arrangement they had
established in their affairs, to wit, reserving four hun-
dred pounds a year for their subsistence, abandoning
the rest of their income, about four hundred pounds
more, all their credits (one which is eight hundred
pounds from an individual and another is one thou-
sand pounds from the State), and the cutting of a
valuable wood, to their creditors. Their whole debts
amounting but to two thousand three hundred
pounds, the term of payment cannot be long if this
arrangement can be preserved. I had hoped that
the journey to Italy would have fixed Mrs. Paradise
with her daughter and left him free to travel or tarry
where he liked best, but this journey has been a bur-
den instead of a relief to their affairs. In fact it is
evident to me that the society of England is neces-
sary for the happiness of Mrs. Paradise and is perhaps
the most agreeable to Mr. Paradise also; it is an
object, therefore, to obtain the concurrence of their
creditors in the arrangements taken. The induce-
ment to be proposed to them is Miss Paradise joining
in a deed in which these dispositions shall be stipu-
lated (which by the laws of Virginia will bind her
property there) so that the creditors would be
secured of their debts in the event of Mr. Para-
dise's death. The inducement to Mr. and Mrs.
Paradise is that their persons and property shall
44 Jefferson's Works
be free from molestation and their substance not
consumed at law.
We suppose that the creditors will name one trus-
tee and Mr. Paradise another (yourself), fully and
solely authorized to receive all remittances from
America, to pay to them first their subsistence money
and the rest to the creditors till they are fully paid.
Miss Paradise will set out in a few days for London
to set her hand to this accommodation ; in the mean-
time they hope you will prepare the ground by nego-
tiating the settlement with the creditors; as far as
I have any influence with Mr. or Mrs. Paradise I used
it and shall use it for the joint interests, of their
creditors and themselves, for I view it was clearly
their interest to reduce themselves to as moderate
an expense as possible till their debts are paid ; if this
can be effected before my departure in April I will
not only aid it here, but have anything done which
may be necessary in Virginia when I go there, such
as the recording the deed, etc. This journey of Mr.
Paradise's will also be an experiment whether their
distresses will not be lighter when separated than
while together. I shall always be glad to hear from
you. Since Mr. Adams' departure I have need of
information from that country and should rely much
on yours; it will always therefore be acceptable. I
am with very sincere esteem, dear Sir, your friend
and servant.
Supplementary Manuscripts 45
TO THE COUNTESS BARZIZA.
PARIS, July 8, 1788.
MADAM,-The letter of March 15, which you did
me the honor to address me, came during my absence
on a journey through Holland and Germany, and my
first attentions after my return were necessarily
called to some objects of business of too pressing a
nature to be postponed. This has prevented my
acknowledging as soon as I could have wished the
honor of receiving your letter. The welcome recep-
tion which Mr. and Mrs. Paradise met with in Vir-
ginia was due to their own merit which had been
well known there before their arrival, and to the
esteem for your family entertained in that country.
You would experience the same, Madam, were any
consideration to tempt you to leave for a while your
present situation to visit the. transatlantic seat of
your ancestors. Heaven has already blessed you
with one child, for which accept my sincere congratu-
lations. It may perhaps multiply these blessings
on you and in that event your family estate in Vir-
ginia may become a handsome and happy establish-
ment for a younger child. It will be a welcome
present to a country which will continue to think it
has some claims on you. I felicitate you on the
prospect of seeing Mr. and Mrs. Paradise at Venice.
The happiness of your situation, your virtues and
those of the Count Barziza will contribute to re-estab-
lish that tranquillity of mind which an unhappy loss
46 Jefferson's Works
has disturbed and continues to disturb. Sensibility
of mind is indeed the parent of every virtue, but it is
the parent of much misery too. Nobody is more its
victim than Mr. Paradise. Your happiness, your
affection and your attentions can alone restore his
serenity of mind. I am sure it will find repose in
these sources, and that your virtues and those of the
Count Barziza will occupy his mind in thinking on
what he possesses rather than on what he has lost,
and in due time to deliver him up fully to your
affections.
I wish to you, Madam, a continuance of all those
circumstances of happiness which surround you, and
have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most
perfect esteem and respect, Madam, your most obe-
dient and most humble servant.
TO C. W. F. DUMAS.
PARIS, July 30, 1788.
SIR,-Your favor of the 24th has just come to hand
and that of the 20th June had never been acknowl-
edged. I congratulate you on the news just received
of the accession of New Hampshire to the new Con-
stitution, which suffices to establish it. I have the
honor to inclose you details on that subject, as also
on the reception of Mr. Adams, which you will be so
good as to reduce to such a size as may gain admis-
sion into the Leyden gazette. We may take a little
glory to ourselves, too, on the victory of our Paul
Supplementary Manuscripts 47
Jones over the Turks commanded by the Captain
Pacha, and we may be assured, if it has, been as signal
as the Russians say, that Constantinople will be bom-
barded by that officer. Why did the Swedish fleet
salute the Russian instead of attacking it ? It would
make one suspect that their whole movements had
in view to divert the Russian fleet from going round
if it could be done by hectoring without engaging in
the war, well understood that Turkey pays and
England guarantees them against all events. It is
scarcely possible, however, that all these things can
pass over without a war. I think the internal affairs
of this country will be settled without bloodshed.
I have the honor to be, with very great esteem and
respect, Sir, your most obedient humble servant.
TO JOHN JAY.
PARIS, September 5, 1788.
SIR,-I wrote you the 3d instant and have this
day received Mr. Remsen 's favor of July 25, written
during your absence at Poughkeepsie, and enclosing
the ratification of the loan of a million florins for
which Mr. Adams had executed bonds at Amsterdam
in March last. The expediency of that loan resulting
from an estimate made by Mr. Adams and myself, and
that estimate having been laid before Congress, their
ratification of the loan induces a presumption that
they will appropriate the money to the objects of the
estimate. I am in hopes, therefore, that orders are
48 Jefferson's Works
given by the Treasury Board to the commissioners of
loans at Amsterdam to apply these moneys accord-
ingly and especially to furnish as soon as they shall
have it what may be necessary for the redemption
of our captives at Algiers, which is a pressing call.
I am not without anxiety however on this subject,
because in a letter of July 22d, received this day from
the Treasury Board, they say nothing on that subject
nor on the arrearages of the foreign officers. They
indorse me the order of Congress of the 18th of July
for sending to the Treasury Board the books and
papers of the office of foreign accounts. I shall
accordingly put them into the hands of a person
who goes from Paris to-morrow morning by the way
of Havre to America and shall endeavor to prevail
on him to attend them from the place of his landing
to New York that the board may receive them from
the hand which receives them from me.
The re-establishment of the parliament and revo-
cation of everything which was done on the 8th of
May is expected to take place in three or four days.
I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most
perfect esteem and respect, Sir, your most obedient,
and most humble servant.
TO FRANCIS HOPKINSON.
PARIS, December 21, 1788.
DEAR SIR,-My last to you was of May 8 and July
6, that of the latter date was only to enclose a book-
Supplementary Manuscripts 49
seller's proposals for sending books to America. The
one of May 8 acknowledged the receipt of yours of
Dec. 16. I informed you also in the letter of May 8
that the vinegar was at length lodged for you in the
hands of M. Limousin at Havre to be forwarded to
the first vessel to Philadelphia. He has never sent
it till the last month and then by a vessel bound to
Baltimore as you will see by the enclosed bill of
lading. However it was in the care of a Mr. Vanet
who was to go in to New York and who I hope
would give you notice of it. The books also which
were lodged with M. Limousin for yourself, Dr.
Franklin and Mr. Rittenhouse remained the whole
winter at Havre. However, I hope you have long
ago received them safe. I sent you as far as the
22d livraison of the Encyclopedie. We are now at
the 29th. To that number, therefore, and what more
may come out before April I, I shall bring to you,
for I have asked of Congress a leave of five or six
months' absence of the next year to carry my family
home and to arrange my affairs there which were
left at sixes and sevens under the idea of soon return-
ing to them.
I shall hope therefore to see you in the course of
the summer. I have no doubt about continuing to
take out your encyclopaedia because I have had your
express approbation of doing it and you would
expressly desire me to cease if you meant to discon-
tinue. But I am more doubtful as to Dr. Franklin's
because my first doing it for him was without orders
Vol. xix--4
50 Jefferson's Works
and he has never intimated to me a wish to continue.
However I shall bring his also, unless he expressly
desires the contrary for which he will still have time
as I shall not sail till the middle of April. Be so good
as to mention these things to him with my sincere
respects.
Not having one scrap of news in literature or the
arts I must be contented to give you those of the
political world. This country is proceeding steadily
to form a constitution. The noise in the earlier part
of, it threatened violence, but' as yet not a life has
been lost. All hands are employed in drawing plans
of bills of rights. Their States-General will probably
meet in March. They will obtain with little or no
opposition from the court their own periodical meet-
ing, their exclusive right to tax, and a share in the
legislation. Some will aim at a habeas corpus law
and free press. These will not be so sure in the first
session. These occupations render this country very
desirous of peace. The insanity of the King of
England leaves them tolerably sure of it, as regencies
are generally peaceable and there is no other quarter
from which they feared being forced into a war. We
had supposed the war in the North in a fair way of
being stopped when all of a sudden disturbances in
Poland seem to threaten a rupture between Russia
and Poland. In this case the former must make her
peace with the Turks by the cession of the Crimea and
the scene of war will be changed. As yet, however,
the symptoms are not decisive enough to say that it
Supplementary Manuscripts 51
will take that turn. I am happy to find our new
Constitution is accepted and our government likely to
answer its purposes better. I hope that the addition
of a bill of rights will bring over to it a greater part
of those now opposed to it; and that this may be
added without submitting the whole to the risk of a
new convention. It would still have one fault in
my eye, that of perpetual re-eligibility of the Presi-
dent. But if my fears on that should be verified in
the experiment I trust to the good sense of our chil-
dren that they will apply the remedy which shall
suit the circumstances then existing. Remember
me affectionately to Mr. Rittenhouse and his family.
Join my daughter in the same greetings as well as in
those I desire you to present to your mother. Be
assured yourself of the sentiments of esteem and
attachment with which I am, dear Sir, your friend
and servant.
P. S. Jan. 1, 1789. My letter having waited a
conveyance till this date I will add a word on the
rigors of the winter in which we are. They have
been excessive since the middle of November and
are likely to continue. The mercury has been here
as low as 9.5 degrees of Fahrenheit below nought, that is to
say 41.5 degrees below the freezing point, which is more than
was ever known before. I received letters from
Marseilles this morning informing me the winter is
more severe there than it was in 1709, when they
lost all their olive trees. They apprehend the same
52 Jefferson's Works
calamity now; and it will take twenty years to
replace them.
Jan. 12. After sealing my letter yours of Oct.
23d came to hand. I am glad to hear of Dr. Frank-
lin 's health ; having had no news of him since July
we were in quiet. I have seen Mr. and Mrs. Tellier-
the vinegar you find is on its way. You will have
the enjoyment the longer. I have not had time to
read your vagary as you call it because I opened the
letter only in the moment this is going off. I am sure
it will please me as all your vagaries do. A.dieu.
TO JOHN JAY.
PARIS, March 1, 1789.
SIR,-My last letters have been of the 11th, 12th
and 21st of January. The present conveyance being
through the post to Havre, from whence a vessel is
to sail for New York, I avail myself of it principally
to send you the newspapers. That of Leyden of the
24th contains a note of the Charge des Affaires of
France at Warsaw which is interesting. It shows a
concert between France and Russia ; it is a prognosti-
cation that Russia will interfere in the affairs of
Poland, and if she does it is most probable that the
King of Poland must be drawn into the war. The
revolution which has taken place in Geneva is a
remarkable and late event. With the loss of only
two or three lives, and in the course of one week, riots
Supplementary Manuscripts 53
begun at first on account of a rise in the price of
bread were improved and pointed to a reformation
of their constitution, and their ancient constitution
has been almost completely re-established. Nor do
I see any reason to doubt of the permanence of the
re-establishment.
The King of England has shown such marks of
returning reason that the regency bill was postponed
in the House of Lo_rds. on the 19th inst. It seems
now probable there may be no change of the minis-
try, perhaps no regent. We may be sure, however,
that the present ministry make the most of those
favorable symptoms. There has been a riot in Brit-
tany begun on account of the price of bread but con-
verted into a quarrel between the noblesse and Tiers-
etat. Some few lives were lost in it. All is quieted
for the present moment. In Burgundy and Franche-
cornpte the opposition of the nobles to the views
of government is very warm. Everywhere else,
however, the revolution is going on quietly and
steadily and the public mind ripening so fast that
there is great reason to hope a good result from
the States-General. Their numbers-about twelve
hundred-give room to fear, indeed, that they may
be turbulent. _
Having never heard of Admiral Paul Jones since
the action in which he took part before Oczahow, I
began to be a little uneasy. But I have now received
a letter from him dated at St. Petersburg, the 31st
of January, where he had just arrived at the desire
54 Jefferson's Works
of the Empress. He has hitherto commanded on
the Black Sea. He does not know whether he shall
be employed there, or where, the ensuing campaign.
I have no other intelligence which would not lead me
into details improper for the present mode of convey-
ance. After observing, therefore, that the gazettes
of France and Leyden to the present date accompany
this I shall only add assurances of the sincere esteem
and respect with which I have the honor to be, dear
Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant.
TO JOHN PAUL JONES.
PARIs, March 23, 1789.
(By courier of France.)
DEAR SIR,-Your favor of January 20/31 from St.
Petersburg came safe to hand and is the only proof
we have received of your existence since you left
Copenhagen. I mention this that reflecting how and
what you have written heretofore you may know how
and what you may write hereafter. I shall put noth-
ing into this letter but what is important to you and
unimportant to any government through which it
may pass.
To begin with your private affairs. I received
three days ago from M. Amoureux a bill for 1,900
louis payable at three (usances ?), which I have deliv-
ered to Messrs. Grand and Co., and desired them to
receive it when due and hold it subject to your order.
Supplementary Manuscripts 55
This Amoureux mentions as forming a une bagatelle
pres, the balance due you.
Having been * * * * to carry into execution the
orders for the medals, I have contracted with the
workmen for them and they are all in hand. Yours
is to be executed by Dupre who is, I think, the best
among them ; and it will be done in the course of the
summer. My instructions as to these medals are
general, to wit : I am to deliver one of gold or silver-
as the case may be-to the person who is the subject ;
to send one of silver to every sovereign and one of
copper to every University of Europe (Great Britain
excepted), two hundred copies to Congress and one
apiece to Lafayette, Rochambeau, Destaing and
Degrasse. I am at liberty to deliver no others. Not
even at the orders and expense of the persons who are
the subjects of the medals. But your wish will be
fulfilled as to the Empress, because I shall send her
a suite of the whole medals under the general order.
I had lately presented to me a demand for about
L4,000 from the French consul at Bergen, without
being told for what. My answer was that I knew of
no cause for such an application and could not pay it.
I suspect this demand has some connection with a very
large packet of official papers I received addressed to
you from Denmark or Norway in the Danish lan-
guage. By the bye, that business makes no way;
though I have written to Count Bernstorff pressing a
settlement, and often spoken to their envoy here, I
cannot obtain one word of an answer of any kind.
56 Jefferson's Works
Another word on the subject of your medal.
Immediately on the receipt of your letter I wrote
to the medallist, cul-de-sac Tetebout (his name is
Renaud), and bought a copy of the medal he had
made, which I gave to Dupre with the observations
of your letter on it. He will avail himself of so much
of the design as is good and as is permitted by the
resolution of the Academic, to whom I applied for
devices for all the medals. Gordon's history fur-
nished me a good relation of your engagement though
the author has permitted himself an impertinence or
two relative to you.
Renaud 's account is 852, as you will see by the
inclosed state of it. Mr. Grand will pay him on
your order so much of it as you find just. Houdon
has promised to have the eight busts ready as soon
as possible, and I shall have him paid out of the same
fund. They will be ready packed against your orders
arrived as to the persons to whom they were destined.
For you will please to observe that neither your letter
of January 20/31 nor the extracts forwarded in that
of * * * and September 16 / 23 mention the names of
the persons they are to be sent to. In like manner
your letter of January 20 / 31 says it incloses an
extract of the journal of your campaign in 1779.
But none such was inclosed. Mr. Short, now in
Italy, will be here to receive your orders for the
distribution of the busts. I shall be absent in
America from the first of May to the end of Novem-
ber, as I have asked leave to go and carry my family
Supplementary Manuscripts 57
home and arrange my affairs, and shall return before
the winter sets in. But the busts will be finished and
paid for before I go, so that nothing will remain for
Mr. Short but to forward them. * * * * * my senti-
ments respecting the Algerines. I shall certainly
make them a subject of consultation with our gov-
ernment while I shall be in America. My favorite
project is still to procure a concurrence of the powers
at war with them; that that concurrence continue
till the strength of those barbarians at sea be totally
annihilated and that the combined force employed
in effecting this shall not be disturbed in its operation
by wars or other incidents occurring between the
powers composing it.
Our new Constitution was acceded to in the course
of the last summer by all the states except North
Carolina and Rhode Island. Massachusetts, Vir-
ginia and New York though they accepted uncon-
ditionally yet gave it as a perpetual instruction to
their future delegates never to cease urging certain
amendments. North Carolina insisted that the
amendments should be made before she would
accede. The more important of these amendments
will be effected by adding a bill of rights ; and even
the friends of the Constitution are become sensible
of the expediency of such an addition were it only to
conciliate the opposition. In fact this security for
liberty seems to be demanded by the general voice
of America and we may conclude it will unquestion-
ably be added. New York, Virginia and North Caro-
58 Jefferson's Works
lina have also demanded that a term be fixed after
which the President shall be no longer eligible. But
the public has been silent on this demand ; so we may
doubt its success. In the meantime the elections
for the new government were going on quietly at the
date of our last letters. We have the names of most
of the Senators but not of the representatives. There
was no question but General Washington would be
elected President ; and we know that he would accept
it, though with vast reluctance. The new Congress
was to meet the first Wednesday in this month, at
New York. The tickets of election of the President
would then be opened, and I presume that General
Washington is now at New York and the new legisla-
ture in a course of business. The only competitions
for the Vice-Presidentship were Mr. J. Adams and Mr.
Hancock. It was thought the former would be chosen.
Though the new Constitution was adopted in
eleven states, yet in those of Massachusetts, Virginia
and New York it was by very small majorities; and
the minorities in the two last are far from the laud-
able acquiescence of that of Massachusetts. Gov-
ernor Clinton in New York and Mr. Henry in Vir-
ginia are moving heaven and earth to have a new
convention to make capital changes. But they will
not succeed. There has been just opposition enough
to produce probably further guards to liberty with-
out touching the energy of the government and this
will bring over the bulk of the opposition to the side
of the new government.
Supplementary Manuscripts 59
In this country things go on well. The States-
General are to meet the 27th of April. The report
of Mr. Necker to the King seems to promise the public €
1. That the King will pretend in future to no power
of laying a new tax or continuing an old one. 2.
That he will not take upon him to appropriate public
moneys to be given by the States. Of course they
are to appropriate. 3. That the States shall con-
vene at fixed epochs. 4. That the King will concur
with them in modifying lettres de cachet. 5. And
in giving a wholesome liberty to the press. 6. That
ministers shall be responsible, and 7. That all this
shall be so solemnly fixed that the King nor his suc-
cessors will have any power to change it. Nothing
has been said about giving to the States a participa-
tion in legislation,but it will be insisted on. The
States will be composed of about three hundred
clergy, three hundred nobles, and six hundred com-
moners, and their first question will be whether they
will vote by orders or persons. I think the latter will
be decided. If this difficulty be got over I see no
other to a very happy settlement of their affairs.
They will consolidate and fund their debts and this
circumstance, as well as the stability which the
changes will give to the proceedings of their govern-
ment, will enable them after the present year to take
any part they please in the settlement of its affairs.
You have heard of the insanity of the King of Eng-
land. His ministers pretend he is recovered. In
truth he is better, but not well. Time will be neces-
60 Jefferson's Works
sary for his perfect recovery and to produce a con-
fidence that it is not merely a lucid interval.
I shall be glad to hear from you as often as possible,
and have the honor to be, with very great esteem,
dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble
servant.
TO JOHN ADAMS
PARIS, May 10, 1789.
DEAR SIR,-Since mine of January 14 yours of
Jan. 20, March I have been handed to me ; the former
by Mr. Jones, whom I am glad to know on your
recommendation and to make him the channel of
evidencing to you how much I esteem whatever
comes from you. The internal agitations of this
country and the inactivities to which England is
reduced by the state of imbecility in which the mad-
ness of the King has terminated, will leave the south-
western parts of Europe in peace for the present year.
Denmark will probably continue to furnish only its
stipulated succors to Russia, without engaging in
the war as a principal. Perhaps a pacification may
be effected between Sweden and Russia; though at
present there is little appearance of it and that we
may expect that the war will go on this year between
the two empires, the Turks and Swedes, without
extending any further. Even the death of the Em-
peror, should it take place, would hardly withdraw
his dominions from the war this summer.
Supplementary Manuscripts 61
The revolution in this country has gone on hitherto
with a quickness, a steadiness and a progress unex-
ampled, but there is danger of a balk now. The
three orders which compose the States-General seem
likely to stumble at the threshold on the great par-
liamentary question, How shall they vote, by orders
or persons? If they get well over this question
there will be no difficulty afterwards, there is so
general concurrence in the great points of constitu-
tional reformation. If they do not get over this
question-and this seems possible-it cannot be
foreseen what issue this matter will take. As yet,
however, no business being begun, no votes taken,
we cannot pronounce with certainty the exact status
of parties. This is a summary view of European
affairs.
Though I have not official information of your
election to the Presidency of the Senate, yet I have
such information as renders it certain. Accept, I
pray you, my sincere congratulations. No man on
earth pays more cordial homage to your work, nor
wishes more fervently your happiness.
Though I detest the appearance even of flattery,
I cannot always suppress the effusiveness of my
heart. Present me affectionately to Mrs. Adams,
Colonel and Mrs. Smith. I hope to see you all this
summer and to return this fall to my prison, for all
Europe would be a prison to me were it ten times as
big. Adieu, my dear friend. Your affectionate hum-
ble servant.
62 Jefferson's Works
TO NATHANIEL CUTTING.
PARIS, June 7, 1789.
DEAR SIR,-Though your last letter-received
yesterday-supposes you will be setting out for
Paris before this can reach you, yet on the bare pos-
sibility of your being delayed I just write a line to
acknowledge the receipt of that letter and of one of
May 22, and to thank you particularly for the one
received yesterday, which conveyed very interesting
intelligence which I had not before. The latest
letters here from America are of April 10; since the
discontinuance of the Havre packet my intelligence
from America has been miserably defective.
I had high hopes of a favorable issue to the revo-
lution of this country till about ten days ago there
began to be room to fear. The aspect even at this
time is discouraging though not quite as much as it
was a week ago. By the time of your arrival here
things will probably take some evident correction.
Mr. Rutledge lodges Hotelle d'Angleterre, rue St.
Honore. There are in the same hotel Mr. Paradise,
Colonel and Mrs. Blackden and Mr. Barlow, all Ameri-
cans, so that you might like to lodge there. I sent
to Mr. Rutledge the paragraph letter respecting him.
In hopes of seeing you here before I depart and
doubting whether this will find you at London, I will
only add assurances of esteem and attachment with
which I have the honor to be, dear Sir, your most
obedient and most humble servant.
Supplementary Manuscripts 63
TO THOMAS PAINE.
PaRIs, July 13, 1789.
DEAR SIR,-I wrote you the day before yesterday
by Mr. Paradise. I write now by post. The case
described in that letter, page three, line four to
eleven, has happened. Mr. Necker was dismissed
from office the evening of the 11th and set out for
Geneva. This was not generally known in Paris till
yesterday afternoon. The mobs immediately shut
up all the playhouses. The foreign troops were
advanced into the city, engagements took place
between some of them and the people. The first
was in the Place St. Louis XV, where a body of Ger-
man cavalry being drawn up the people posted them-
selves upon and behind the piles of stones collected
there for bridges, attacked and drove off the cavalry
with stones. I suspect the cavalry rallied and
returned, as I heard shortly after in the same spot a
considerable firing. This was a little before dusk
and it is now early in the morning, so I have not
ascertained any particulars. Monsieur de Mont-
morin has resigned. It is said Baron de Breteuil is
taken into the ministry, but I cannot affirm this.
The progress of things here will be subject to checks
from time to time of course. Whether they will be
great or small will depend on the army. But they
will be only checks. I am, dear Sir, with great
esteem, your most obedient humble servant.
64 Jefferson's Works
TO JOHN BONDFIELD.
PaRIs, July 16, 1789€
DEAR SIR,-I am honored with yours of the 11th
inst. and lament much that I cannot avail myself of
so excellent an opportunity of going to America as
the Washington offers. But not having yet received
my permission I am not at liberty to go.
The tumults in Paris which took place on the
change of the ministry, the slaughter of the people
in the assault of the Bastile, the beheading the Gov-
ernor and Lieutenant-Governor of it and the Prevost
de Merchands, excited in the King so much concern
that, bursting from the shackles of his ministers and
advisers, he went yesterday morning to the States-
General with only his two brothers, opened his heart
to them, asked them what he could do to restore
peace and happiness to his people and showed him-
self ready to do everything for that purpose, prom-
ising particularly to send away the troops. The heat
of the city is as yet too great to give entire credit to
this and they continue to arm and organize bour-
geoisie. But I think you may be assured of the
honest sincerity of the King in this last transaction
which came from himself, and that no other act of
violence will come from him. He returned to the
chateau afoot and the whole States-General with
him. I am, with great esteem, dear Sir, your most
obedient humble servant.
Supplementary Manuscripts 65
TO JOHN JAY:
PARIS, August 5, 1789.
SIR,-I wrote you the 19th of the last month with
a postscript of the 21st and again on the 23d and
29th. Those letters went by private conveyance;
this goes by the London post.
Since my last some small and momentary tumults
have taken place in this city in one of which a few 'of
the rioters were killed by the city militia. No more
popular executions have taken place. The capture
of the Baron de Besenval, commandant of the Swiss
troops, as he was flying to Switzerland, and of the
Duke de la Vanguger endeavoring to escape by sea,
would endanger new interposition of the popular
arm were they to be brought to Paris. They are,
therefore, confined where they were taken. The
former of these being unpopular with the troops
under his command, on account of oppressions, occa-
sioned a deputation from their body to demand jus-
tice to be done on him and to avow the devotion of
the Swiss troops to the cause of the nation. They
had before taken side in part only.
Mr. Necker's return contributed much to establish
tranquillity, though not quite as much as was ex-
pected. His just intercessions for the Baron de
Besenval and other fugitives dampened very sensibly
the popular ardor towards him. Their hatred is
stronger than their love. Yesterday the other min-
isters were named. The Archbishop of Bordeaux is
vol. xix-5
66 Jefferson's Works
Garde des Sceaux; M. de la Tourdepin, minister or
war ; the Prince of Beauvon is taken into the council
and the feuille des benefices given to the Archbishop
of Bordeaux. These are all of the popular party;
so that the ministry (M. de la Luzerne excepted) and
the council, being all in reformation principles, no
further opposition maybe expected from that quarter.
The national assembly now seriously set their
hands to the work of the constitution. They decided
a day or two ago the question whether they should
begin by a declaration of rights, by a great majority
in the affirmative. The negatives were of the clergy
who fear to trust the people with the whole truth.
The declaration itself is now on the carpet.
By way of corollory to it they last night mowed
down a whole legion of abuses, as you will see by the
arrette which I have the honor to inclose you. This
will stop the burning of chateaux and tranquillize the
country more than all the addresses they could send
them. I expressed to you my fears of the imprac-
ticability of debate and decision in a room of twelve
hundred persons as soon as Mr. Necker's determina-
tion to call that number was known. The incon-
veniences of their number have been distressing to
the last degree, though as yet they have been em-
ployed in work which could be done in the lump.
They are now proceeding to instruments every word
of which must be weighed with precision. Hereto-
fore. too, they were hooped together by a common
enemy. This is no longer the case. Yet a thorough
Supplementary Manuscripts 67
view of the wisdom and rectitude of this assembly
disposes me more to hope they will find some means
of surmounting the difficulty of their numbers, than
to fear that yielding to the unmanageableness of
debate in such a crowd, and to the fatigue of the
experiment, they may be driven to adopt in gross
some one of the many projects which will be pro-
posed. There is a germ of schism in the pretensions
of Paris to form its municipal establishment inde-
pendently of the authority of the nation. It is not
yet proceeded so far as to threaten danger. The
occasion does not permit me to send the public
papers; but nothing remarkable has taken place in
the other parts of Europe. I have the honor to
be, with the most perfect respect and esteem, Sir, your
most obedient and most humble servant.
TO GENERAL HENRY KNOX.
PARIS, September 12, 1789.
SIR,-In a letter which I had the honor of writ-
ing to the Secretary for Foreign Affairs some
three or four years ago I informed him that a
workman had undertaken by the help of moulds
and other means to make all the parts of the musket
so exactly alike as that mixed together promiscu-
ously any one part would serve equally for every
musket. He had then succeeded as to the lock
both of the officers ' fusil and the soldiers ' musket
from a promiscuous collection of parts. I put
68 Jefferson's Works
together myself half a dozen locks taking the first
pieces which came to hand. He has now completed
the barrels, stock and mounting of the officers'
fusil and is proceeding on those of the soldiers '
musket. This method of forming the fire-arm
appears to me so advantageous when repairs become
necessary that I have thought it my duty not only
to mention to you the progress of this artist but
to purchase and send you a half dozen of his officers'
fusils. They are packed in a box marked TI no.
36, are sent to Havre; from whence they shall be
forwarded to New York. The barrels and furni-
ture are to their stocks, to protect the warping of
the wood. The locks are in pieces. You will find
them, tools for putting them together, also a single
specimen of his soldiers' lock. He formerly told
me, and still tells me, that he will be able, after a
while, to furnish them cheaper than the common
musket of the same quality, but at first they
will not be so cheap in the first cost though econ-
omy in repairs will make them so in the end. He
cannot tell me exactly at what price he can furnish
them, nor will he be able immediately to furnish
any great quantity annually; but with the aid
of the government he expects to enlarge his estab-
lishment greatly.
If the situation of the finances of this country
should oblige the government to abandon him he'
would prefer removing with all his people and
implements to America, if we should desire to
Supplementary Manuscripts 69
establish such a manufacture, and he would expect
our government to take all his implements on
their own account on what they have cost him.
He talks of about 3,000 guineas. I trouble you
with these details and with the samples : I. That
you may give the idea of such an improvement
to our own workmen, if you think it might answer
any good end. z. That all the arms he shall
have for sale may be engaged for our government
if he continues here and you think it important
to engage them. That you may consider and do
me the honor of communicating your determi-
nation, whether in the event of his establishment
being abandoned by this government, it might be
thought worth while to transfer it to the United.
States on conditions somewhat like those he has
talked of. I have the honor to be, with sentiments
of the most perfect esteem .and respect, Sir, your
most obedient humble servant.
TO WILLIAM BINGHAM.
PARIs, September 25, 1789.
DEAR SIR,-Your favor of April 16 came to my
hands but a few days ago and found me much
occupied with preparations for my visit to America
on which I set out tomorrow. It was not till
yesterday, therefore, that I could go to la Muette
where the shops are established for making the
carding and spinning apparatus. I enclose you
70 Jefferson's Works
a note from Mr. Milne who is at the head of the
work. To the details contained in that I need
only add that a complete set of machines can be
delivered within five weeks from the date of the
order. I say nothing about models of them because
they would cost near as much as machines and
would be much less perfect. On this view of the
matter you will be able to give your orders either
for one of each kind of machine or for a complete
set which would comprehend four of the spinning
machines because one of the other kinds employs
fully four of that. Should you desire only one
of each kind it will cost less than half of the sum
named in the memorandum. Mr. Short, who
remains here during my absence, will receive and
execute any order you will be pleased to give;
but as the sum to be paid is considerable it would
be necessary to him to be furnished with it. One-
half is to be paid in advance and the other half after
a very short interval.
I shall be happy on my return to render every
service I can to the society for encouraging manu-
factures. I have not yet been honored with the
commands of Mrs. Bingham announced in your
letter. I can only, therefore, at this moment, give
her assurances of my readiness to serve her and
add to yourself those sentiments of esteem and
respect with which I have the honor to be, Sir,
your most obedient and most humble servant.
Supplementary Manuscripts 71
TO THE BARON DE GEISMER.
PARIS, November 20, 1789.
You have had great reason, my dear Sir, to
wonder that you have been so long receiving an
answer to your request relative to the drawing of
a cabriolet and phaeton. Your object was to
have such drawings as that a workman could work
by them. A painter's eye draught would not
have answered this purpose, and, indeed, to be sure
of having them done with the accuracy necessary
to guide a workman, I could depend on nobody
but myself. But the work was to be done prin-
cipally in an open court and there came on between
two and three months of such intense cold as
rendered this impossible. Since the season has
become milder I have devoted such little scraps
of time to this object as I was master of, and I now
enclose you the drawings. They are made with
such scrupulous exactness in every part that your
workman may safely rely on them. I must except
from this the drawing of the carriage-la train-
of the phaeton. I took less pains about this because
I did not like it. They make light crans-necks
which are preferable. This drawing was made
for the sake of the body-la caisse-the circular
ribs of that are round rods of iron about a half
inch diameter. If you would have the body of
the cabriolet higher it is made so by raising the
72 Jefferson's Works
lock between the shaft and axle, or by putting in
its place an iron in this form,
I must return you many thanks for your very
great attentions * * * * * * * * * *
Our late informations from America are that our
new Constitution will begin [in] March and with an
almost universal approbation. In order to recon-
cile those who still remain opposed to it a declaration
of rights will be added. General Washington will
undoubtedly be President. I have asked leave to
pay a short visit to my own country. I expect
to go out in the ensuing spring and to return in
autumn. I shall pass two months at Monticello.
The revolution in this country-for such we may
call it-is going on smoothly and will, I think, end in
rendering the nation more free and more powerful.
Their public stocks have been rising slowly but
steadily ever since the accession of Mr. Necker.
I forget whether I mentioned to you that my
wines from Hocheim succeed to admiration. I
enclose you a pretty little popular tune which will
amuse you for a day or so.
I am, with the most perfect esteem and attach-
ment, dear Sir, your sincere friend and humble
servant.
Supplementary Manuscripts 73
TO DAVID RITTENHOUSE.
NEW YORK, June 12, 1790.
DEAR SIR,-I know not what apology to make
for the trouble I am about to give you. I am sure
I must call your public spirit in aid of your private
friendship to me.
You will see by the head of the enclosed report
that the House of Representatives have instructed
me to lay before them a plan for establishing uniform
weights, measures and coins. Five and twenty
years ago I should have undertaken such a task
with pleasure because the sciences on. which it rests
were then familiar to my mind and the delight of
it. But taken from them through so great a
length of time and forced by circumstances into
contemplations of a very different nature and
much less pleasing, I have grown rusty in my
former duties. To render me more. unequal to
the task it comes on me in the moment when I
am separated from all my books and papers, which
had been left in Paris and Virginia; and this place
yields fewer resources in the way of books than
could have been imagined. Thus situated I have
done what I could toward fulfilling the object of
the House of Representatives and I think myself
happy in having such a resource as your friendship
and your learning to correct what I have prepared
for them. The necessity I am under must be my
apology. It is desirable for the public that the
74 Jefferson's Works
plan should be free from errors; it is desirable for
me that they should be corrected privately by a
friend rather than before the world at large by the
unfeeling hand of criticism.
Do then, my dear Sir, read it over with all that
attention of which you are so much the master
and correct with severity everything you find in
it which is not mathematically just, and while I
ask your attention to every part of it I will make
some notes on particular things. It was not till
I had got through the work that I was able to get a
sight of Whitehurst's on the same subject. Mr.
Madison procured it for me from a library in Phila-
delphia, but on perusal of it his plan of two pendulums
appeared to me on the whole less eligible than
Leslie's of the vibrating rod. How has it been
inferred that Sir Isaac Newton 's calculation of the
length of the pendulum for the latitude of London
is 39.2 inches ? From his general table in the
Principia, book 3, I deduce 39.1682. Am I wrong ?
If so, I may be equally wrong in the calculation
of 39.1285 miles for latitude 38 degrees, in which an error
would be fundamentally important, and, therefore,
I ask your peculiar attention to that. What do
you think of the vibrating rod? Is it not clear
of some objections which lie against the pendulum?
and is it liable to any of which that is clear? and
which is the best on the whole? I am too little
familiar with the mechanism of the clock to know
how the rod can be adapted to a machinery which
Supplementary Manuscripts 75
shall maintain and count its vibrations, without
accelerating them by its power or retarding them
by its friction, in short, which shall leave the rod
free to make its vibrations uninfluenced by any
circumstance but its own length. On this point
no man in the world can judge or contrive better
than yourself. On this, then, and all the other
points of the report, pray give me the full benefit
of your assistance. In the trouble I am giving
you I feel it as a circumstance of additional nus-
fortune that I am pressed in time. The session
of Congress is drawing to a close. Nothing will
keep them together after the money bills are got
through, and this will be pretty soon. I am obliged,
therefore, to ask your immediate attention to this
subject as I must give in the report before they
rise. I suppose they will have it printed for con-
sideration to be taken up at their next meeting.
I will not weary you with apologies though I
feel powerfully the necessity of them. I am, in
all times and places, your sincere friend and humble
servant.
TO THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY
(ALEXANDER HAMILTON)
PHILADELPHIA, June 25, 1791.
SIR,-Your favor of the 8th inst. could only be
received on my return here and I have this morning
been considering its contents. I think with you
76 Jefferson's Works
that it will be interesting to receive from different
countries the details it enumerates. Some of these
I am already in a regular course of receiving. Others
* * * * well executed will scarcely need to be
repeated. As to these I already possess what may
answer your views in part. I must therefore give
you the trouble to call on me in some * * * *
in order that after seeing what I possess you may
decide on the proper supplement. I think it
advisable not to trouble gentlemen abroad with
sending what we have already, because the less
we give them to do the more secure we shall be
of having it done. I am, with most respectful
esteem, dear Sir, your most obedient and most
humble servant.
TO T. M. RANDOLPH
PHILADELPHIA, July 3, 1791.
DEAR SIR,-I wrote to Maria this day sennight
and to Martha three days before, to wit, June 23.
In this letter I asked information to be obtained
from Colonel Lewis relative to my tobacco of which
I had heard nothing. But having received the
day after a letter from him giving me full infor-
mation, I mentioned in mine to Maria that no notice
should be taken of my desire expressed in the letter
to her sister ; lest any accident should have happened
to the letter to Maria I repeat here that no enquiry
of Colonel Lewis is necessary.
Supplementary Manuscripts 77
The President is not yet arrived, but we expect
him the day after to-morrow. He has probably pro-
tracted his journey so as to avoid the ceremonies
of to-morrow. We expect daily to hear the events
of the expedition under General Scott into the
Indian country. Perhaps you will hear it sooner
than we shall. Having nothing to communicate
in the line of public news I will state something
personal. You will observe by the enclosed and
preceding papers that I am mentioned on the
subject of Paine's pamphlet on the Rights of Man;
and you will have seen a note of mine prefixed to
that pamphlet whence it has been inferred that
I furnished the pamphlet to the printer and pro-
cured its publication. This is not true. The fact was
this : Mr. Beckley had the only copy of that pamphlet
in town. He lent it to Mr. Madison, who lent it
to me under the injunction to return it to Mr.
Beckley within the day. Beckley came for it
before I had finished reading it and desired as soon
as I had done I would send it to a Mr. Jonathan
B. Smith whose brother was to reprint it. Being
an utter stranger to Mr. J. B. Smith I explained
to him in a note that I sent the pamphlet to him
by order of Mr. Beckley, and to take off somewhat
of the dryness of the note I added that I was glad
to find it was to be reprinted here, etc., as you have
seen in the printed note. I thought so little of
this note that I did not even retain a copy of it;
and without the least information or suspicion that
78 Jefferson's Works
it would be published, out it comes the next week
at the head of the pamphlet. I knew immediately
that it would give displeasure to some gentlemen
just by the chair of government who were in senti-
ment with Burke and as much opposed to the
sentiments of Paine.
I could not disavow my note, because I had
written it. I could not disavow my approbation
of the pamphlet, because I was fully in sentiment
with it, and it would have been trifling to have
disavowed merely the publication of the note
approving at the same time of the pamphlet. I
determined, therefore, to be utterly silent except
so far as verbal explanations could be made.
The Vice-President, who is at Boston, took up
the cudgels under the name of Publicola. He is
in turn assailed by a host of republican champions.
I think it probable he will be aided by some of his
compeers, but, more cautious than he, they will
mask themselves better. For my part I am deter€
mined to let them write and wrangle as they please
without intermeddling in word or deed.
I am unable as yet to fix a time for my trip to
Virginia. It must depend on the movements of
the President. I foresee nothing in the public
affairs which threatens impediment. Present me
affectionately to my daughters, and believe me to
be, dear Sir, yours sincerely.
Supplementary Manuscripts 79
TO JAMES MADISON.
PHILADELPHIA, July 21, 1791.
MY DEAR SIR,-Your favors of July 10 and 13
have been duly received and I now return the pam-
phlet enclosed in the latter with thanks for the
perusal. The author has the appearance of knowing
better what has passed in England than in America.
As to the latter, to be sure, he has been ignorant
enough. I am sincerely sorry that Freneau has
declined coming here. Though the printing business
be sufficiently full here, yet I think he would have
set out on such advantageous ground as to have
been sure of success. His own genius in the first
place is so superior to that of his competitors. I
should have given him the perusal of all my letters
of foreign intelligence and all foreign newspapers;
the publication of all proclamations and other
public notices within my department and the
printing of the laws, which, added to his salary,
would have been a considerable aid. Besides this,
Fenno's being the only weekly or semi-weekly
newspaper and under general condemnation for
its toryism and its incessant efforts to overturn
the government, Freneau would have found that
ground as good as unoccupied. P***e will not
be appointed to the place I had recommended him
for. I have a letter from Mazzei asking informa-
tion of his affairs. I must, therefore, ask from you
the letter you were to write me as to Dohrman; he
80 Jefferson's Works
desires to be affectionately remembered to you.
He is declared, with the consent of the Diet, charge
des affaires of the King of the nation.
No news yet from General Scott. Mr. Randolph
writes me that our harvest is safely in, in general.
That the quantity will be one-half as much again
as the acre usually yields and the quality of first
rate. The price offered is 5/6 at Richmond.
Tobacco there is still 18 / to 20 /. I have European
letters and papers to the 8th of May. The Empress
has notified the English factory in Russia that the
peace between her and Great Britain is likely to
be broken, but knowing their good conduct they
shall be welcome to remain in her dominions. She
pays a compliment to the British nation and says
she considers it only a war with their ministers.
Denmark has made a warm offer of mediating alone.
Prussia has notified the Porte that they are free
to conclude a peace with Russia without any medi-
ation and that it will not be disagreeable to them.
But the Porte has refused to relinquish the mediation
of Prussia and England, and has also declined
accepting that offered by Spain. France is going
on steadily with its work. On the 7th of May a
report of a committee was given in to the assembly
confirming their former plan as to the mode of the
settling the constitution of their colonies, adding
further that the colonies should have the initiative
(exclusively) as to the condition of the people of
color, and that each colony should send deputies
Supplementary Manuscripts 81
to the French port of St. Martins to a Congress
which should propose a general form of constitution.
This was ordered to be printed and taken up at a
future day, and there was some symptom of a
disposition in the assembly to overrule the report,
so far as it is related to the condition of people
of color. Comparing the date of this with the news
said by the gazettes to have arrived at St. Domingo
July 1st I cannot help suspending my belief of the
latter.
I hope your health is better established. Your
friends here anxiously enquire after it.
Your letters
now, therefore, are doubly interesting and very
feelingly so to, dear Sir, your affectionate friend
and servant.
TO GOVERNOR WILLIAM BLOUNT.
PHILADELPHIA, August 12, 1791.
SIR,-Your letter of July 17th to General Knox
having been referred to me by the President as
relating to a subject merely civil, I have the pleasure
to inform you of his consent to the absence you
there ask from the I 5th of September to the 20th
of November. As it imports highly to the people
within your government to conform to the articles
of the treaty against hunting or settling on the
Indian lands, I have no doubt you will see the
necessity of duly promulgating before your departure
vol xix-6
82 Jefferson's Works
these and such other parts of the treaty as are
immediately interesting to them.
I avail myself of this occasion of acknowledging
the receipt of your favor of July 17 addressed to
myself, and of expressing my anxiety to receive
the ulterior information on the subject of the lands
of the United States which you are so good as to
promise me. Among other things it will be inter-
esting to know whereabouts the southern boundary
of North Carolina will be intersected by the north
line of the Cherokees which is to go on till it meets
the line crossing Houlston. Also to know what
and where is Campbell's line spoken in the treaties
of Hoylston and Hopwell, so that they may be
delineated on the map.
I enclose you a paragraph from a newspaper on
the subject of a Zackariah Coxe and others which
we hope to be without foundation.
I have the honor to be, with great esteem and
respect, Sir, your most obedient humble servant.
TO GEORGE HAMMOND
(BRITISH MINISTER).
PHILADELPHIA, December 15, 1791.
SIR,-I am to acknowledge the honor of your
letter of November 30 and to express the satis-
faction with which we learn that you are instructed
to discuss with us the measures which reason and
practicability may dictate for giving effect to the
Supplementary Manuscripts 83
stipulations of our treaty yet remaining-to be
executed. I can assure you, on the part of the
United States, of every disposition to lessen difficulties
by passing over whatever is of smaller concern and
insisting on those matters only which either justice
to individuals or public policy renders indispensable.
And in order to simplify our discussions by defining
precisely their objects I have the honor to propose
that we shall begin by specifying on each side the
particular acts which each considers to have been
done by the other in contravention of the treaty.
I shall set the example.
The provisional and definitive treaties in their
v€ article stipulated that "his British Majesty
should, with all convenient speed, and without
causing any destruction, or carrying away any
negroes or other property of the American inhab-
itants, withdraw all his armies, garrisons and fleets
from the said United States and from every port,
place and harbor within the same. "
But 1. The British garrisons were not with-
drawn with all convenient speed, nor have they
yet been withdrawn from
Michillimachinac, on Lake Michigan.
Detroit, on Lake Erie.
Niagara and Oswego, on Lake Ontario
Oswegatchie, on the river St. Lawrence.
Point au fer and Dutchman's Point, on Lake
Champlain.
2. The British officers have undertaken to exer-
84 Jefferson's Works
cise a jurisdiction over the country and inhabitants
in the vicinities of the forts; and
3. They have excluded the citizens of the United
States from navigating even on our side of the
middle line of the rivers and lakes established as
the boundary between the two nations.
By these proceedings we have been intercepted
entirely from the commerce of furs with the Indians
to the northward, a commerce which had ever
been of great importance to the United States, not
only for its intrinsic value but as it was a means
of cherishing peace with those Indians and of
superseding the necessity of that expensive war-
fare we have been obliged to carry on with them,
during the time that those posts have been in other
hands.
On withdrawing the troops from New York,
1. A large embarkation of negroes, of the property
of the inhabitants of the United States, took place,
before the commissioners, on our part, for inspecting
and superintending embarkations had arrived there,
and without any account ever rendered thereof.
2. Near three thousand others were publicly
carried away by the avowed order of the British
commanding officer, and under the view and against
the remonstrance of our commissioners.
3. A very general number were carried off in
private vessels, if not by express permission, yet
certainly without opposition on the part of the
commanding officer, who alone had the means of
Supplementary Manuscripts 85
preventing it, and without admitting the inspection
of the American commissioners; and
4. Of other species of property carried away,
the commanding officer permitted no examination
at all. In support of these facts I have the honor
to enclose you documents,l the list of which will be
subjoined; and in addition to them, I beg leave to
refer to a roll, signed by the joint commissioners
and delivered to your commanding officer for.trans-
mission to his court, containing .a description of
the negroes publicly carried away by his order as
before mentioned, with a copy of which you have
doubtless been furnished.
A difference of opinion, too, having arisen as to
the river intended by the plenipotentiaries, to be
the boundary between us and. the dominion of
Great Britain, and by them called the St. Croix,
which name, it seems, is given to two different
rivers, the ascertaining of this point becomes a
matter of present urgency. It has therefore been
1 Documents referred to and enclosed:
Extract of a letter of May 12, 1783, from Sir Guy Carleton to
General Washington.
Letter of May 29, 1783, from Mr. ,Morgan.
From Sir G. Carleton to the American Commissioners.
Remonstrance of June 9, 1783, from the American Commissioners to
Sir Guy Carleton.
Letter of June 14, 1783, from the American Commissioners to
General Washington.
Extract of a remonstrance of June 17, 1783, from the American
Commissioners to Sir Guy Carleton.
Letter of Jan. 18, 1784, from the American Commissioners to General
Washington.
86 Jefferson's Works
the subject of applications from us to the govern-
ment of Great Britain.
There are other smaller matters between the two
nations which remain to be adjusted. But I think
it would be better to refer these for settlement
through the ordinary channels of our ministers
than to embargo the present important discussions
with them. They can never be obstacles to friend-
ship and harmony.
Permit me now, Sir, to ask from you a specification
of the particular acts, which, being considered by
his British Majesty as a non-compliance on our
part with engagements contained in the iv, v, and
vi articles of the treaty, induced him to suspend
the execution of the v€ and render a separate
discussion of there inadmissible.
And accept assurances of the high respect and
esteem with which I have the honor to be, Sir,
your most obedient and most humble servant.
TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.
PHILADELPHIA, January 10, 1792.
The Secretary of State having received information
that the merchants and merchandize of the United
States were subject in Copenhagen and other points
in Denmark to considerable extra duties from
which they might be released by the presence of
a consul there,
Reports to the President of the United States:
Supplementary Manuscripts 87
that it would be expedient to have a consul to be
a resident in the port of Copenhagen. That he
has not been able to find that there is any citizen
of the United States residing there. That there is
a certain Hans Rudolph Saabye, a Danish subject
and merchant of that place, of good character, of
wealth and distinction and well qualified and dis-
posed to act for the United States, who would
probably accept the commission of consul, but
that that of vice-consul hitherto given by the
President to foreigners in ports where there was
no proper American citizen, would probably not
be accepted, because in this, as in some other ports
of Europe, usage has established it as a subordinate
grade.
And that he is therefore of opinion that the said
Hans Rudolph Saabye should be nominated consul
of the United States of America for the port of
Copenhagen and such other places within the
allegiance of his Danish Majesty as shall be nearer
to the said port than to the residence of any other
consul or vice-consul of the United States within
the same allegiance.
TO PETER CHARLES L,ENFANT.
PHILADELPHIA, February 27, 1792.
SIR,-From your letter received yesterday in
answer to my last and your declaration in conversa-
tion with Mr. Lear, it is understood that you abso-
88 Jefferson's Works
lutely decline acting under the authority of the
present commissioners. If this understanding of
your meaning be right, I am instructed by the
President to inform you that, notwithstanding the
desire he has entertained to preserve your agency
in the business, the condition upon which it is to
be done is inadmissible and your services must
be at an end. I have the honor to be, Sir, your
most obedient humble servant.
TO THOMAS JOHNSON, DAVID STUART AND
DANIEL CARROLL.
PHILADELPHIA, March 8, 1792.
DEAR SIRs,-I received your favor of February
29 the day after I had written a public letter to
the commissioners which touched on some of the
subjects of yours. I may say in this private letter
what could not be so well said in a public one that
there never was a moment 's doubt about the parting
with Major L'Enfant rather than with a single
commissioner. I must correct an error in my
public letter. I said there that the engraving
would be done zn three or four weeks; this idea
had been given, but on further enquiry I find we
cannot have it these two months. You formerly
hinted the expectancy of bringing the navigable
canal from the little falls down to Washington.
The President thinks the practicability of this
Supplementary Manuscripts 89
should be properly examined into, as it would
undoubtedly be useful.
In my public letter I sent you the outlines of
a proposed loan. I now enclose you a calculation
somewhat on the plan of yours. I think there is
no doubt but that the lots will sell better after the
employment of the money than before it. Con-
sequently that it is better to raise money by a
loan and to sell for repayment after that money
shall have been employed to raise the value of
what is to be sold. The mortgages on this plan
are put on the best footing possible. No doubt it
will be well to be making sales for repayment as
fast as they may be advantageously made, even
before the lapse of the eight years. We have
questioned Mr. Ellicot very particularly whether
the plan now in hand is exact. He says the original
one mixed conjecture with fact; but that the
conjectural parts are since ascertained by exact
survey and that this plan is corrected from the
survey and may be relied on to the utmost minute-
ness. We see in fact that some whole squares of
lots in the original plan are occupied by the channel
of the creek in the corrected one. I fear your other
apprehension is better founded, to wit: that the
avenues are made to converge to the ends of a
building of supposed extent, that the building may
very possibly be of less extent, and consequently
not reach the points of view created for its use.
I believe the only remedy is acquiescence for the
90 Jefferson's Works
present and hope for the future that our building
may extend with the fortunes of our govern-
ment. The angular buildings at the commence-
ment of the avenues may probably be offensive to
the eye, if not well managed. I have seen this
deformity obviated by terminating the house at
that end with a bow window, with a semicircular
portico and with other fancies. Should not rows
of trees in the avenues and tracts be an object of
early attention ?
Major L'Enfant had no plans prepared for the
Capitol or Government House. He said he had
them in his head. i do not believe he will produce
them for concurrence. On speaking with the Presi-
dent on Mr. Stewart of Baltimore's idea of facing
the buildings with stone of different colors, he
seemed rather to question whether from the water-
table, perhaps from the ground upwards, brick
facings with stone ornaments would not have a
better effect, but he does not decide this. The
remains of antiquity in Europe prove brick more
durable than stone. The Roman brick appears in
these remains to have been 22 inches long, 11
inches wide and 2 inches or 2.5 inches thick. The
grain is as fine as that of our best earthenware.
Before I conclude I will mention that in bringing
the canal from the little falls into the city it is
worth while to consider whether it should not be
delivered into the canal of the Tyber to ensure the
due cleansing of that by its current. I am with
Supplementary Manuscripts 91
great and sincere esteem, dear Sirs, your friend and
servant.
P. S. You seem to suppose the commissioners
liable in their private fortunes on the plan of the
loan you had seen. Ours is certainly clear on that.
In its plan nothing could make the commissioners
liable but fraud, or such gross negligence as is as
impossible as fraud, and then, I presume, it could
only be each for his own individual act.
Dates of ³ Amount of ³Aggr. ³Amount of ³Sum
³Sums of
Install- ³ each ³sum of ³the ³Actually
³Inter-
ments ³Install- ³the ³interest ³recieved
³est to
³ ment ³interest ³to be ³by the ³be paid
³ ³of which ³deducted ³barrow- ³by sales
³ ³is to be ³from ³ers ³or
³ ³deducted ³each ³ ³other-
³ ³from ³install- ³ ³wise
³ ³each ³ment ³ ³
³ ³payment ³ ³ ³
ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÅÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÅÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÅÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÅÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÅÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ
1792 May 15 ³ $ 50,000 ³ $ 0 ³$ 0 ³$
50,000 ³
Nov 15 ³ $ 50,000 ³$ 50,000 ³$ 1,500 ³$
48,500 ³
1793 May 15 ³ $100,000 ³$100,000 ³$ 3,000 ³$
97,000 ³
Nov 15 ³ $100,000 ³$200,000 ³$ 6,000 ³$
94,000 ³
1794 May 15 ³ $100,000 ³$300,000 ³$ 9,000 ³$
91,000 ³
Nov 15 ³ $100,000 ³$400,000 ³$ 12,000 ³$
88,000 ³
1795 May 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
Nov 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
1796 May 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
Nov 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
1797 May 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
Nov 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
1798 May 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
Nov 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
1799 May 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
Nov 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
1800 May 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
Nov 15 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³ 0 ³
0 ³$15,000
³ ³ ³ ³ ³
³ $500,000 ³ ³ ³ ³$165000
³ $165,000 ³ ³ ³ ³
³ $665,000 ³ ³ ³ ³
92 Jefferson's Works
It appears from the above that the commissioners
will receive $468,500, and have to pay after four
considerable intervals $665,000. Now 468,000 : 665-
000 : : 100 : 142, that is for every 100 dollars they
receive they will have to pay in the long run 142
dollars, but we may certainly hope that the effect
of the $468,000, if judiciously employed, will be
to raise the value of the lots more than .42 per cent.
Suppose the interest, after 1794, is kept down
by the sale of lots to raise it, 100 lots a year, at
$300 each, will pay the annual interest of $30,000,
say 550 lots; 1666 lots a year, at $300 each, will
pay the principal $500,000. The whole loan then
will absorb from beginning to end, at $300 each, 2216
lots.
TO LOUIS XVI.1
PHILADELPHIA, March 14., 1792.
VERY GREAT, GOOD AND DEAR FRIEND AND ALLY,-
I receive as a new proof of friendship to the United
States the letter wherein you inform me that you
have accepted the Constitution presented to you
in the name of your nation and according to which
it is henceforth to be governed. On an event so
important to your kingdom and so honorable to
yourself accept the offering of my sincere con-
gratulations and of the sentiments of the Senate
@#(1) Written by Thomas Jefferson at the order of George Washington
and signed by the latter. @#
Supplementary Manuscripts 93
and Representatives of the United States expressed
in their resolutions now enclosed.
We have watched with utmost friendly solicitude
the movements of your nation for the advancement
of their happiness ; we have regarded this great
spectacle with the feelings natural to those who
have themselves passed through like perils, and
with sincere satisfaction, we have seen this second
occasion proclaim your Majesty a second time a
friend and patron of the rights of mankind.
That yourself, your family and people, under
the edifice which you have now completed, may
repose at length in freedom, happiness and safety,
shall be our constant prayer and that God may
ever have you, great and dear friend and ally, in
His safe and holy keeping.
Written at Philadelphia, this fourteenth day of
March, 1792, and of our Independence the sixteenth.
Your faithful friend and ally.
TO BENJAMIN HAWKINS.
PHILADELPHIA, April 1, 1792.
DEAR SIR,-At Mrs. Trist's desire I forward to
you about a dozen beans of three different kinds,
having first taken toll of them as she had done
before. They are of the scarlet flowering kind. This
is all I know of them. The most beautiful bean
in the world is the Caracalla bean which, though
in England a green-house plant, will grow in the
94 Jefferson's Works
open air in Virginia and Carolina. I never could
get one of these in my life. They are worth your
enquiry.
Some friendly Indians have been killed near
Fort Pitt lately, on a trading visit, by a party of
Virginians. This will not only defeat the measures
set on foot for peace, but spread the war order.
There has been also a small fracas on our disputed
territory to the eastward, by our sheriffs levying
taxes on the inhabitants ' of Moose Island, who as
to that article wished to be neutrals. A sale of
1,200,000 acres of land by Mr. R. M. in Europe
and the purchase of five millions more is the report,
of the day. Things are going on well in France
by the last authentic accounts. The English papers
have since killed the Duke of Orleans. It seems
to be thought that the affairs of Europe are by no
means settled, and that the late pacification has
only covered a fire which will burst out again
immediately. Adieu. Yours affectionately.
TO THOMAS JOHNSON, DAVID STUART AND
DANIEL CARROLL.
PHILADELPHIA, April 20, 1792.
GENTLEMEN,-Your favor of the 11th has been
duly received, and laid before the President. He
thinks it best to delay making any alteration in
the plan of the city. The considerations which
weigh with him are the expediency of fixing the
Supplementary Manuscripts 95
public opinion on the thing as stable and unalter-
able, the loss of the work done if altered, the closing
all the avenues which point to the Capitol, removing
the two Houses to a still greater distance, change
in the engraving and that it will not be necessary
to dig away the hill to the eastward, since, were
it to be dug away, the private buildings would as
effectually exclude prospect from the Capitol, except
merely along the avenues. He thinks that the
obstruction given by Mr. Young's house need not
bring in any question for years to come.
The warrants are received and your desire shall
be attended to for releasing the lots mortgaged
pari passu with the redemption, but I do not know
that that can now be effected. You have continually
heard of the extraordinary crash which has taken
place here, at New York and Boston, of persons
dealing in paper and of good merchants and others
who had dealings with the paper; well, it has pro-
duced a general stagnation of money contracts
which will continue till it is known who stands and
who falls, during this crisis, and Blodget thinks
it prudent to suspend preparing our loan and,
indeed; we think so too. This will oblige you to
keep, Messrs. Johnson, Stuart and Carroll, back
some of your operations ; perhaps proper offers to
workmen and laborers without being addressed to
any place in particular might at this. moment draw
great numbers from New York, Boston, and this
place. The procuring of workmen from Scotland
96 Jefferson's Works
is an object of importance, and it may be doubted
whether the importation of some Germans might
not be a good experiment as well in economy as
to have a certain dependence. They are distin-
guished for their industry and sobriety and might
be good as an example and model to be referred to.
I have the honor to be, with the most perfect respect,
Gentlemen, your most obedient and most humble
servant.
TO HIS MAJESTY GEORGE III OF ENGLAND.1
PHILADELPHIA, June 6, 1792.
GREAT AND GOOD FRIEND,-I have made CHOICE
of Thomas Pinckney, one of our distinguished
citizens, to reside near your Majesty in the quality
of Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States
of America. He is well apprised of the friendship
our Republic bears to you and of our desire to
cultivate the harmony and good correspondence so
happily subsisting between us. From a knowledge
of his fidelity, probity and good conduct, I have
entire confidence that he will render himself accept-
able to your Majesty, and give effort to our desire
of preserving and advancing, on all occasions, the
interest and happiness of the two nations. I
beseech you, therefore, to give full confidence to
whatever he shall say to you on the part of the
@#(1)This and the following letter are copies of those enclosed to
Thomas Pinckney. See Volume VIII, page 368. @#
Supplementary Manuscripts 97
United States, and most of all when he shall assure
you of their friendship and wishes for your pros-
perity, and I pray God to have your Majesty in
safe and holy keeping.
Written at Philadelphia this [sixth] day of June,
1792.
TO THE QUEEN OF ENGLAND.
PHILADELPHIA, June 6, 1792.
MADAM, OUR GOOD FRIEND,-This letter will be
delivered to you by Thomas Pinckney, one of our
distinguished citizens, whom I have named Minister
Plenipotentiary to reside near the person of the
King, your husband.
My knowledge of his good qualities gives me full
confidence that he will so conduct himself as to
merit your esteem, and I pray that you will yield
entire confidence to the assurances he will give you
of our friendship, and that God will have you always,
Madam, our good friend, in His holy keeping.
Written at Philadelphia this [sixth] day of June,
1792.
(To our good friend, the Queen of Great Britain.
It will be better to leave the superscription blank
to be properly filled by Mr. Pinckney on the spot,
if he find it necessary to deliver the letter.)
vol. xix-7
98 Jefferson's Works
TO STEPHEN CATHALAN.
PHILADELPHIA, December 2, 1792.
DEAR SIR,-The small essay which has been
commenced under your kind assistance for colon-
izing the olive tree to South Carolina has induced
some patriotic gentlemen of that country to turn
their attention further toward its importance; and
to give to their efforts a more steady and permanent
form. I gave it as my opinion to them that the
best plan which could be pursued at a moderate
expense, would be to rent, near Marseilles, an acre of
ground, or say your quarterelle, which is something
less than an acre, to employ by the year a laboring
man who understands engrafting, to make it his
business to sow olives in this ground, to engraft
on them cuttings from the best kinds, and to send
to Carolina in the winter of every year all the plants
he could have in readiness, together with a quantity
of the olive berries to be sown in Carolina in order
to be engrafted on them.
If before a given day in winter, say the first of
January, any ship should be sailing from Marseilles
to Charleston, it should be his business to pack
properly his olive berries and young plants and
put them on board; if no vessel should occur before
that, or any more convenient day, it should be
his business to proceed himself with his olive berries
and plants, through the canal of Languedoc to
Bordeaux; there to remain (under the patronage
Supplementary Manuscripts 99
of Fenwick) till a vessel should sail from thence
to Charleston, on board of which he should put
his cargo and then return to Marseilles to recom-
mence for the next year the same operation of
sowing, engrafting, packing and dispatching in the
same way to Charleston, ' the olive berries and
plants which he could prepare for that year, and so
to continue for a number of years. The first question
occurring was to how small a sum can we reduce this
expense annually, so as that it may be effected
and yet not too sensible a burden on the gentlemen.
I recollect that the price of a quarterelle of the
best lands close to Marseilles was one hundred
louis, consequently its rent five louis a year. The
hire of a laboring man six louis a year, his subsistence,
considering he may have to move from Marseilles
to Bordeaux, will be more than if he were always
stationary, but still, if he uses the economy_ which
a man of his condition well understands, it need
not exceed fourteen louis a year, and all together
twenty-five louis. Therefore, to cover all errors
of calculation, accidents and contingencies, I pro-
posed double that sum, to wit: fifty louis. The
gentlemen have accordingly appropriated that sum
annually.
The second question arising was whom we should
engage to manage this business at Marseilles? On
this there could be but one opinion, your exertions
heretofore, your goodness and your relations to this
country marked you as the person whom we must
100 Jefferson's Works
engage to act there, and to their entreaties I must
add mine in the most earnest degree. After you
shall have put the business under way, that is to
say, after you shall have engaged a proper laborer
and piece of ground, I hope you will have no
other trouble than to receive and pay the wages
and rent, and to see the nursery now and then and
that the person does his duty. Your reward will
be the consciousness of doing good, our thanks,
and those of a grateful posterity, nor can any
objections arise from the circumstances of your own
country, as that imports more oil than it exports,
and consequently is interested to increase the
quantity produced abroad as well as at home.
I will take it for granted, then, that you will become
the father of our olive colony by superintending
whatever is necessary to be done on that side the
water. The plants will be received and their
freight paid at their port of delivery here, which
we must entreat to make, in every possible case,
the port of Charleston. Great injury and loss
happen in shipping and unshipping in warehouses,
etc., but when a conveyance to Charleston direct
cannot be had without danger of losing the season,
then New York or Philadelphia are the next best
ports. Baltimore is too uncertain and Norfolk still
more so. I enclose you a letter from Charles Cotes-
worth Pinckney, Esquire, of Charleston, who is chair-
man of the agricultural society there, which will
inform you of the arrangements taken to have the
Supplementary Manuscripts 101
sum of money destined to this object, always under
your order.
To his correspondence on the subject I must
refer you for the future and to such alterations
in my plan as he shall please to direct. It may
not be amiss to add annually a few plants of the
best figs for drying as also of the best grapes for
making what we call "dried raisins," and you, I
believe, "des panses; " only taking care that these
be really few, so that they may in no wise abridge
or interfere with the olives which are the main
object. We will,take care to procure the patronage
of Mr. Fenwick at Bordeaux for so much of the
business as must be transacted there.
I have the honor to be, with great and sincere
esteem, dear Sir, your most obedient and humble
servant.
TO GOVERNOR JOHN HANCOCK.'
[1793?]
SIR,-Your favor of July 20th came safely to
hand together with the memorial of Monsieur de
Latombe of the 7th of June and the resolve of
the Legislature of Massachusetts of the 24th of the
same month. On considering the nature of the
difficulties which have occurred in the execution of
@#(1) Written by Jefferson at Washington's order. At the bottom of the
original letter, in the former's handwriting, is indited: Governor Han-
cock, from the President of the United States. @#
102 Jefferson's Works
the Consular Convention, they appeared to be such
as could not be removed but by a legislative act.
When these papers were received the session of
Congress was already drawn so near to a close that
it was not thought expedient to propose to them
the taking up at that time a subject which was
new and might be found difficult. It will remain,
therefore, for their consideration at their next
meeting in December.
TO DAVID HUMPHREYS.
PHILADELPHIA, January 3, 1793
DEAR SIR,-My last to you was of the 6th of
November. Since that the papers have been for-
warded to you by every opportunity from my
office as Mr. Taylor assures me, to whom I am
obliged to confide that duty.
Your last received was number 59 as acknowl-
edged in mine. With the present you will receive
newspapers for yourself, Mr. Carmichael and Mr.
Short, whom we expect by this time to be at Madrid,
also half a dozen plans of the city of Washington,
in the District of Columbia, to be displayed wher-
ever they will be most likely to be seen by that
class of people who might be attracted to it.
Congress is in session as you will see by the papers,
which will give you the details of their proceedings.
The western Indians have proposed to meet us in
the spring, in the neighborhood of Sandusky, to
Supplementary Manuscripts 103
treat of peace. The result is far from being certain.
The late election of President and Vice-President
has given us the former unanimously, the latter
by a great majority. We have now been a con-
siderable time without hearing from Mr. Barclay,
and shall always be glad to be informed by you
on this subject, as he may be in a situation not
to find means of conveying letters to us. We are
anxious€to know, too, whether the monopoly of grain
mentioned in your letter threatens really to take
place. Remember we hear nothing of the Minister
of Portugal, who has been in great demand here
lately.
The price has been consequently high and will
be so again. The French West Indies become more
and more dependent on us for subsistence ; there is
at present some glimmering of hope that the efforts
of the free inhabitants will be directed with more
efficiency to the reduction of the common enemy.
However, we are far from certainty on that subject,
referring you for details on these subjects to the
papers which accompany this. I am, with great and
sincere esteem, dear Sir, your most obedient and
humble servant.
TO JOHN GARLAND JEFFERSON.
PHILADELPHIA, April 14., 1793.
DEAR SIR,-Your letter of March 31 came duly
to hand on the 9th instant, having been induced,
Supplementary Manuscripts 105
no means of doing it, and no friend in Richmond
on whom I could rely with certainty, I am obliged to
take the only measure which remains in my power,
that of referring you to Colonel Bell in Charlottes-
ville. This I know cannot be as desirable to you,
because you cannot have such a choice of supplies
there and because they are dearer. The latter
objection, therefore, I get you over by desiring
you to consider yourself free to go beyond the sum
as far as the difference of prices between Richmond
and Charlottesville. The former objection will
remain, and as to that, I must only pray you to
take the will for the deed. In or before the fall I
shall certainly see you. I shall recommend to
Dabney Carr to begin a course of law and reading
at his mother's immediately, so that you may
deliver my books to him as you finish them. I
a.m, with great and sincere esteem, dear Sir, your
affectionate kinsman.
P. S. I enclose you a letter of credit to Colonel
Bell.
TO EDMOND C. GENET.
PHILADELPHIA, August 16, 1793.
SIR,-The President of the United States has
received the letter which you addressed to him from
New York on the 13th inst. and I am desired to
observe to you that it is not the established course
106 Jefferson's Works
for the diplomatic * * * * * residing here to have
any direct correspondence with him. The Secretary
of State is the organ through which their communi-
cations should pass.
The President does not conceive it to be within the
line of propriety or duty for him to bear evidence
against the declarations which, whether made to him
or to others, is perhaps immaterial. He therefore
declines interfering in the case. I have the honor to
be, with great respect, Sir, your most obedient and
most humble servant.
TO MARIA JEFFERSON.
GERMANTOWN, November 17, 1793.
No letter yet from my dear Marie, who is so fond
of writing, so punctual in her correspondence! I
enjoin as a penalty that the next be written in
French. Now for news. The fever is entirely
vanished from Philadelphia. Not a single person
has taken infection since the great rains about the
first of the month, and those who had it before are
either dead or recovered. All the inhabitants who
had fled are returning into the city, probably will
all be returned in the course of the ensuing week.
The President has been into the city, but will prob-
ably remain here till the meeting of Congress to form
a point of union for them before they will have had
time to gather knowledge and courage. I have not
yet been in, not because there is a shadow of danger,
Supplementary Manuscripts 107
but because I am afoot. Thomas is returned into
my service. His wife and child went into town the
day we left. They then had the infection of the
yellow fever, were taken two or three days after and
both died. Had we staid there two or three days
longer they would have been taken at our house. I
have heard nothing of Miss Cropper, her trunk
remains at our house. Mrs. Fullarton left Phila-
delphia. Mr. and Mrs. Rittenhouse remained there,
but have escaped the fever. Follow closely your
music, reading, sewing, housekeeping, and love me
as I do you. Most affectionately.
P. S. Tell Mr. Randolph that General Wayne has
had a convoy of twenty-two wagons of provisions and
seventy men cut off in his rear by Indians.
TO ALEXANDER HAMILTON.
PHILADELPHIA, December 12, 1793.
SIR,-Colonel Humphreys having charged Mr.
Church, our consul at Lisbon, to send us information
of the truce between Algiers and Portugal by an
express vessel, he engaged one under Swedish colors
to come here with his letters. She is now lying at
New York at our expense. Thinking it material to
save as much of the expense as we can by permitting
her to be freighted back to Lisbon, to which place she
is to return, I mentioned to the President that the
officer at the head of the customs at New York would
108 Jefferson's Works
be the most proper person to take charge of her. It
is with his approbation that I enclose you the charter-
party, stating the terms on which she has been
engaged, with a desire that you will give the neces-
sary orders to that officer to do with the vessel what €
is best for the public interest. I have the honor to
be, with great respect, your most obedient servant.
TO THE PRESIDENT OF BANK OF THE UNITED STATES.
PHILADELPHIA, January - 1794
SIR,-I have the honor to inform you that I have
resigned the office of Secretary of State and that
Mr. Randolph, late Attorney-General of the United
States, is appointed by the President and approved
by the Senate, as Secretary of State. You will,
therefore, be pleased to consider all authority hereto-
fore held by me over any funds in the bank belong-
ing to the Department of State as now transferred to
him. I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient
servant.
TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.
MoNTIcELLo, February 23, 1795
DEAR SIR,-You were formerly deliberating on the
purpose to which you should apply the shares in the
Potomac and James River companies presented to
you by our Assembly and you did me the honor of
asking me to think on the subject. As well as I
Supplementary Manuscripts 109
remember some academical institution was thought
to offer the best application of the money. Should
you have finally decided in favor of this, a circum-
stance has taken place which would render the
present moment the most advantageous to carry it
into execution, by giving to it in the onset such an
eclat and such solid advantages as would ensure a
very general concourse to it of the youth from all our
states and probably from the other parts of America
which are free enough to adopt it. The revolution
which has taken place at Geneva has demolished the
college of that place which was in a great measure
supported by the former government. The colleges
of Geneva and Edinburgh were considered as the two
eyes of Europe in matters of science, insomuch that
no other pretended to any rivalship with either.
Edinburgh has been the most famous in medicine
during the life of Cullen, but Geneva most so in the
other branches of science and much the most resorted
to from the continent of Europe because the French
language was that which was used. A M. D'Iver-
nois, a Genevan, a man of science, known as. the
author of a history of that republic, has proposed the
transplanting that college in a body to America.
He has written to me on the subject as he has also
done to Mr. Adams, as he was formerly known to us
both, giving us the details of his views for effecting it.
Probably these have been communicated to you by
Mr. Adams, as D'Ivernois desired should be done, but
lest they should not have been communicated I will
110 Jefferson's Works
take the liberty of doing it. His plan, I think, would
go to about ten or twelve professorships. He names
to me the following professors as likely if not certain
to embrace the plan.
Monchon, the present President, who wrote the
analytical table for the Encyclopaedists, and which
sufficiently proves his comprehensive science. Pic-
tet, known from his ad measurements of a degree and
other works, professor of natural philosophy. His
brother, said by M. D'Ivernois to be also great.
Serebier, an author of commentaries on Spallarrani
and of other works in natural philosophy and
meteorology, also the translator of the Greek trage-
dies. * * * and L'Huillier, both mathematicians,
and said to be inferior to nobody in that line
except La Grange, who is without an equal. Prevost,
highly spoken of by D'Ivernois. De Saussure and
his son, formerly a professor, but who left the college
to have more leisure to pursue his geological researches
into the Alps by which work he is very advantage-
ously known.
Most of these are said. to speak our language well.
Of these professors the names of Monchon, Pictet, de
Saussure and Serebier are well known to me. as stand-
ing foremost among the literati of Europe. Secrecy
having been necessary this plan had as yet been con-
certed only with Pictet, his brother and Prevost, who
knew, however, from circumstances that the others
would join them, and I think it very possible that the
revolution in France may have put it in our power
Supplementary Manuscripts 111
to associate La Grange with them, whose modest and
diffident character will probably have kept him in
the rear of the revolutionist principles, which has
been the ground on which the revolutionists of
Geneva have discarded their professors. Most of
these are men having families and, therefore, M.
D'Ivernois observes they cannot come over but on
sure grounds. In proposing a revenue of 15,000
dollars for the whole institution and supposing lands
could be appropriated to this object, he says that
one hundred Geneva families can readily be found
who will purchase and settle on the lands and deposit
for them the capital of which fifteen thousand would
be the interest. In this revenue he means to com-
prehend a college of languages preparatory to the
principal one of sciences and also a third college for
the gratuitous teaching of the * * * reading and
writing.
It could not be expected that any propositions
from strangers unacquainted with our means and
our wants could jump at once into a perfect accommo-
dation with these. But those presented * * * would
serve to treat on, and are capable of modification
* * * leable perhaps to the views of both parties.
I. We can well dispose with his 2d and 3d col-
leges as not being too partial for an extensive country
and the * * * sufficiently and better provided for
already by our public and private grammar schools.
I should conjecture that this would reduce one-third
of his demand for revenue, and that 10,000 d. would
112 Jefferson's Works
then probably answer their remaining views, which
are the only important ones to us.
2. We are not to count on raising the money from
lands, and consequently we must give up the pro-
posal of the colony of Geneva farmers. But the
wealth of Geneva in money being notorious and the
class of moneyed men being that which the new gov-
ernment is trying to get rid of, it is probable that the
capital sums could be borrowed on the credit of the
funds under consideration sufficient to meet the first
expenses of the transplantation and establishment
and to supply also the deficiency of revenue till the
profits of the shares shall become sufficiently superior
to the annual support of the college as to repay the
sums borrowed.
3. The composition of the academy cannot be set-
tled there. It must be adapted to our circumstances,
and can, therefore, only be fixed between them and
persons here acquainted with those circumstances
and conferring for the purpose after their arrival here.
For a country so marked for agriculture as ours I
should think no professorship so important as one
not mentioned by them, a professor of agriculture,
who, before the students should leave college, should
carry them through a course of lectures on the prin-
ciples and practice of agriculture, and that this pro-
fessor should come from no country but England.
Indeed, I should mark Young as the man to be
obtained. These, however, are modifications to be
left till after their arrival here.
Supplementary Manuscripts 113
M. D'Ivernois observes that the professors keep
themselves disengaged till the ensuing spring attend-
ing an answer, as he had desired his proposition to be
made to our legislature, and accordingly got a mem-
ber to sound as many of his brethren on the subject
as he could, desiring if he found it would be desperate
that he would not commit the honor either of that
body or the college of Geneva, by forcing an open act
of rejection. I received his information only a fort-
night ago, that the thing was evidently impracticable.
I immediately forwarded this information to D'Iver-
nois, not giving him an idea that there was any other
resource. Thinking, however, that if you should
conclude to apply the revenues of the canal shares
to any institution of this kind, so fortunate an outset
would render * * * be obtained. I have supposed
it my duty both to you and them to * * * the cir-
cumstance to your consideration.
A question would arise as to the place of the estab-
lishment ; as far as I can learn, it is thought just that
the State which * * * the revenue should be most
considered in the uses to which it * * * appropri-
ated. But I suppose that their expectation would
be satisfied by a location within their limits and that
this only * * * be so far from the federal city as
moral considerations would recommend and yet near
enough to it to be viewed as an appendix of that, and
that the splendor of the two objects would reflect
usefully on each other.
Circumstances have already consumed much of the
VOL. XIX-S
114 Jefferson's Works
* * * allotted us. Should you think the proposition
can be brought at all within your views, your deter-
mination, as soon as * * * important occupations will
admit it, would require to be conveyed as early as
possible to M. D'Ivernois, now in London. Lest my
last letter should throw the parties into other engage-
ments, I will not trespass on your time and attention
by adding to this lengthy letter anything further than
by assurances of the high esteem and respect with
which I have the honor to be, dear Sir, your sincere
friend and humble servant.
TO AARON BURR.
PHILADELPHIA, January 7, 1797.
DEAR SIR,-I wrote you some time before I left
home on the subject of my friend Currie's affair, but
lest that letter should not have been at hand I trouble
you with this merely to inquire in what state his suit
against Morris is, and I should not have done it but
that you had supposed that if terminated favorably
at all it would be before this time ; a line of informa-
tion will be acceptable.
A want of confidence in the posts prevents my
saying anything on political subjects further than
that it is proposed (and no doubt will be agreed) to
commence a great naval power by building * * * * *
12 frigates from 28 tons * * * * vessels, say a fleet
of 50 ships, the first cost ten, fifty or ninety millions
of dollars. The annual expenses between five and
Supplementary Manuscripts 115
six millions. These alone will cost us annually one
and one-half dollars * * * * besides the great cost
add the army, civil list and interest of the debt and
* * * the amount. I am, dear Sir, your friend and
servant.
TO LOUIS, PRINCE OF PARMA.
PHILADELPHIA, May 23, 1797.
I received from your Royal Highness the letter
with which you were pleased to honor me, through
the channel of Mr. Pinckney, then our envoy extraor-
dinary at the court of Spain, in which you expressed
your wish to establish a correspondence with some
person in the United States of America, who might
be able to furnish subjects of natural history from
this country in exchange for those of Europe. I
have never myself undertaken to form a cabinet
of natural history, nor consequently to make
myself acquainted with the methods of preparing
and preserving the different subjects. My occupa-
tions in public life have been and still continue
inconsistent with the attentions which would have
been requisite to such an undertaking. However
ardently, then, I wished I could myself€ have been
the person who should gratify the laudable desires
of your Royal Highness to enrich your cabinet
with American subjects, yet was sensible that the
way to serve you was not to undertake what I
should have executed very defectively, but to
116 Jefferson's Works
engage some person whose habits and occupations
would enable him more completely to fulfill your
wishes. As to the person to whom I should address
myself, there is no doubt. Mr. Charles Wilson
Peale, a member of our Philosophical Society and
inhabitant of this city, has for many years been
engaged in forming a cabinet of natural history,
is constantly occupied in collecting and preparing
new subjects and does this with a skill unequalled by
any other among us. To him, therefore, I ventured
on behalf of your Royal Highness to propose that
he should enter into correspondence with the keeper
of your cabinet, furnish you with such subjects of
the three kingdoms as should be called for from
this region and receive from yours in exchange
such as your keeper could procure or spare. Mr.
Peale readily acceded to the proposition, limiting
his undertaking very candidly by the following
expressions in his letter.
" I have it in my power, " says he, " to make an
exchange of animal subjects generally, of minerals
a small number, but as to vegetables I have not
had time to pay much attention to them as yet.
However, by the help of Mr. Bartram and some
others of my acquaintance in that line, the subjects
wished for may be obtained. "
In addition to Mr. Peale, I would observe that
Mr. Bartram he mentions is the owner and keeper
of a botanical garden in the neighborhood of this
city, who provides and furnishes with great skill
Supplementary Manuscripts 117
and at moderate prices such trees and shrubs of
this country as the curious call for, and packs
them so carefully as to preserve their vegetable
powers through any length of voyage, within
ordinary limits, and that should you wish to enrich
your gardens as well as your cabinet with American
subjects, you may be well served through the
medium of Mr. Peale as the single correspondent
who can conveniently transact with Mr. Bartram
whatever calls may be made on him. To relieve
your Royal Highness from all doubt and embarrass-
ment as to the expectations of Mr. Peale with
respect to compensation, I will observe that he is
a private citizen having no other fortune than his
cabinet and deriving the support of that as well
as of his family from the profits made by showing
it to the curious, that by increasing its subjects
he increases the desire of seeing it and consequently
his profits arising therefrom and hence will consider
the subjects received in exchange delivered here
clear of expense as full compensation for those he
will deliver here properly packed to the Minister
of Spain, or any other agent you shall appoint.
This throws on your Royal Highness the expense
of transportation both of the subjects received
and given in exchange, but he observes that neither
his profits nor circumstances enable him to meet
any pecuniary expenses. You will be pleased,
therefore, to decide for yourself whether the con-
dition is more onerous than the object merits.
118 Jefferson's Works
Should the channel which I have opened for the
fulfilment of your wishes meet your approbation
the person entrusted with the keeping of your
cabinet may immediately commence his corre-
spondence with Mr. Peale by sending a list of his
wants in every line, which, to the extent of Mr.
Peale's opportunities, will be speedily complied with.
I willingly offer to your Royal Highness the con-
tinuance of my attentions to the fulfilment of your
wishes whenever I can be useful to you.
Perhaps when we see how far your wants go
beyond the faculties of Mr. Peale, I may be able
to find some other who may make up his deficiencies.
In the meantime permit me to pay my personal
tribute to science and to your Royal Highness's
dispositions to promote it, by depositing in your
cabinet a tooth of the great animal called in Europe
the mammoth, of which we find remains in the
interior and uninhabited parts of this country;
their great distance from us renders them rare and
difficult to be obtained. This curiosity is now on
its way to this place and will be put into the hands
of the Minister of his Catholic Majesty for you,
to be forwarded as you direct.
It is now encumbent on me to make some apology
for the delay in this answer. I live far hence in
the interior country and therefore was late in
receiving your letter. The circumstance of distance,
too, lengthened the negotiations with Mr. Peale.
I then wished to accompany my answer with the
Supplementary Manuscripts 119
tooth before mentioned of the enormous quadruped
which once inhabited this country, and with an
account of a recent discovery of the remains of
a carnivorous animal four or five times as large
as a lion, found in the western parts of Virginia;
this account will make part of a volume of our
philosophical transactions now in the press, but
not being yet printed and returning myself shortly
from hence to my ordinary residence in Virginia,
I have determined to make a subsequent mission
of that and no longer to withhold acknowledg-
ments I owe, and the homage of those sentiments
of respect and attachment with which I have the
honor to be your Royal Highness's most obedient
and most humble servant.
TO GOVERNOR JAMES MONROE.
PHILADELPHIA, April 13, 1800.
DEAR SIR,-Your favor of the 6th came to hand
last night. Mr. Erving had left town two days
before. However, it will go to-morrow morning
by a private hand; it will much more than satisfy
him ; I am persuaded he will receive it with extreme
pleasure.
I either expressed myself badly in my letter,
or you have understood expressions too generally.
I never doubted the propriety of our adopting as
a system that of pomp and fulsome attentions by
our citizens to their functionaries. I am decidedly
120 Jefferson's Works
against it, as it makes the citizen in his own eye
exalting his functionary and creating a distance
between the two, which does not tend to aid the
morals of either. I think it a practice which we
ought to destroy and must destroy and, therefore,
must not adopt as a general thing even for a short
time. My query was meant for the single spot of
Richmond, where I understood was a great deal
of federation and Marshallism, and this latter spirit
I thought nothing should be spared to eradicate.
I did not know whether (at] every reiteration of repub-
licanism, demonstration might not be a service
toward drawing over his less inveterate supporters.
However, I own to you the letter had hardly
gone out of my hand before I convinced myself
that it was more in our spirit to let things come to
rights by the plain dictates of common sense than
by the practice of any artifices ; and that at any
rate I ought not to take a part in them, as therefore
I had never suggested the thought but to you at
that time, as I have done it to no one since. You
have seen the bills lately rejected by the Senate;
they have brought in a bill leaving all the states
tolerably free to model the federal as well as the
state juries, but whether they will pass it is another
question. It is believed the bill for electing the
President and Vice-President will pass the lower
House in its caucus form. I think we shall rise the
first or second week in May. We have no news
from Europe at all interesting. The elections of
Supplementary Manuscripts 121
Massachusetts will be known in a few days and
that of the city of New York soon after it. I am
of the opinion the republicans there have been
much too sanguine as to the issue of this last. Pre-
sent my salutations and esteem and respect to Mrs.
Monroe and accept my assurance of my constant
affection to yourself. Adieu.
TO ANDREW ELLICOTT.
WASHINGTON, DeCember 18, 1800.
DEAR SIR,-I received a letter before I left home
-your favor of Oct. 17- as I had in due time the
preceding one. Attractive nature and the country
employments are my apology to my friends for
being a very unpunctual correspondent while at
home; having no refuge here from my room and
writing-table, it is here that I fetch the less easy
of my correspondence. I am glad to hear you are
for printing your journal. It will be a great grati-
fication to see it. I cannot suppose the adminis-
tration can have any objection to the publication
of the charts, etc. My own opinion is that govern-
ment should by all means in their power deal out
the material of information to the public in order
that it may be reflected back on themselves in
the various forms into which public ingenuity
may throw it.
Mr. Dunbar has been so kind as to pass through
122 Jefferson's Works
my hand a copy of his journal made for the use
of a friend of his in London. He sent it open for
my perusal with a request to read and forward it.
I am happy to see that the location of the
boundary has been so scientifically executed. He
gives a physical account of the country which is
interesting.
I think you had it in contemplation to establish
an accurate meridian at this place, but whether in
one of the public buildings or where else I do not
recollect; was it done, or is there anything here
which will procure the meridian as found and
worked on by you?
The election is under dilemma ; the two republican
candidates are probably even, and the states in
Congress which are federal are disposed to take
advantage of that circumstance to prevent an
election by Congress and permit the government
of the Union to be suspended for want of a head.
This tells, us who are entitled to the appellation of
anarchists with which they have so liberally branded
others. Accept assurances of perfect esteem.
TO GENERAL THADDEUS KOSCIUSKO.
WASHINGTON, March 14, 1801.
DEAR GENERAL,-I enclose you a letter from Mr.
Barnes on the subject of your affairs here. A loan
at interest of 8 per cent having been proposed by
Supplementary Manuscripts 123
our government, I thought it better to convert a
part of your bank stock into that, which was done to
advantage. All the details are in the hands of Mr.
Barnes, who is worthy of all confidence. This will
be handed you by our friend, Mr. Dawson. I cannot
hail you with confidence on the return of our fellow-
citizens to the principles of '76 and to their thorough
understanding of the artifices which have been played
off on them and under the operation of which they
were while you were here. They are sensible of the
dangers into which they were suffering themselves
to be meshed and see the burdens of debt which they
have imposed on them. The people have come over
in a body to the republican side and have left such
of their leaders as were incurable to stand by them-
selves ; so that there is every reason to hope that that
love of party division which so counts here will be
totally obliterated. It would give me exquisite
pleasure to have you here a witness to our country
and to recognize the people whom you knew during
the war. For all particulars I refer you to Mr. Daw-
son, who, being an actor in the scene, can give you
all the details.
I have not been able to learn your exact situation
since you were here. Your letters are too barren of
what I wish most to hear, I mean of things relating
to yourself. I am in constant expectation of receiv-
ing your commission to buy the one hundred acres
of land for you in my neighborhood. I am fixed
here, however, for some time. Continue to preserve
124 Jefferson's Works
my place in your esteem and accept assurances of
my constant and affectionate friendship.
P. S. At this moment Mr. R- appears and
delivers me your letter of which he is the bearer.
TO JAMES MADISON.
WASHINGTON, April 30, 1801.
I hasten the return of the bearer that he may meet
you at Brown's and convey you information as to the
road. From Songster's I tried the road by Ravens-
worth, which comes into the turnpike road four and
a half miles below Fairfax courthouse. There are
about two miles of it which, I think, cannot be passed
by your carriage without oversetting ; and consulting
with Colonel Wren, who knows both roads, he says
there is no comparison, that you must absolutely
come by Fairfax courthouse, all that road being
practicable till you come to Little 's lane, which you
have to encounter whatever way you come. I passed
it yesterday, a wagon being then stuck fast in it, nor
do I suppose any four-wheeled carriage could then
have got through the spot where the wagon was
without stalling. But two days of wind and sun
will by to-morrow make immense odds in it, so that
I hope you will be able to pass it.
I met with Mr. Gaines and a Mr. Beauspoke at
Brown's. They live near. I spoke of the difficulty
of your getting up the Bull-Run hill. They agreed
Supplementary Manuscripts 125
to take each a horse and draw your carriage up.
Accept their offer by all means, as however steady
your horses they will be in the utmost peril of balking,
and should they once begin there are other hills suf-
ficient to make them give you a great deal of vexation.
The Bull-Run hill is really the worst I ever saw on a
public road. Still, let nothing tempt you to go by
Centersville, as on that route the whole is cut by
wagons into mud holes. From Brown's to Fairfax
courthouse you have fourteen miles of very firm road,
only hilly in the beginning. You had better start as
soon as you can see to drive, breakfast at Colonel
Wren's and come on here to dinner. We shall wait
"or you till .4 o'clock. My respects to Mrs. Madison,
and affectionate esteem to yourself.
,
P. S. I before mentioned to you what I had written
to Leiper on the subject of our letter. I have received
no answer. The same letter said something of his
disappointment of office. I suspect it has not pleased
him. I own I have thought something of his silence,
were it only on account of the use Callender is making
of his name.
TO JOHN LANGDON.
WASHINGTON, May 23, 1801.
MY DEAR SIR,-After your refusal of the office of
Secretary of the Navy, it was proposed to Captain
Jones, of Philadelphia, who in like manner declined
126 Jefferson's Works
it. General Smith then agreed to perform the duties
without being appointed or receiving any reward.
He has nearly completed the requisitions of the law
on a surmise that Captain Jones might give a different
answer on a second application. I proposed it to
him again, and he again declined it. I now learn that
it is thought possible that you might be induced to
relieve our distress by undertaking it. I lose not a
moment, therefore, in proposing it to you. The
labors of reformation and of ultimately disposing of
the vessels will all be over to your hand. The resi-
dence here is very pleasant, indeed a charming society
and not too much of it, all living on affectionate
and unceremonious terms. It is impossible to be.
associated with more agreeable colleagues. I hope,
therefore, that you will undertake the office, and
so say by return of post. The commission shall be
forwarded on receiving your answer; and we shall
entertain the hope of seeing Mrs. Langdon and
yourself as soon after as your convenience will
admit. Accept assurances of my constant esteem
and high consideration.
TO JAMES MONROE.
WASHINGTON, March 31, 1802.
DEAR SIR,-Yours of the 21st is duly received.
Chisolm is now engaged in running up for me twenty
brick pilasters to my offices, which take about four
thousand bricks, and I remember it was very doubt-
Supplementary Manuscripts 127
ful whether we had that number. But if there be
as many over it as you need, they are at your service,
and I will give orders accordingly by the next post.
I expect to be there myself within ten days after the
rising of Congress, and to remain a fortnight. Per-
haps one of your plantation visits may be so timed
as to fall in with mine, say the first week in May.
I have not written to you on the resolutions of the
assembly respecting slaves, because it does not press,
and the issue of the affairs of St. Domingo may influ-
ence the question. I would rather, too, defer it till
we can have 'a conversation and concur in the trail
to be pursued. I have received a statement from
Gouverneur Morris on the case of Houdon. It gives
us little insight into it. I have papers at Monticello
which I think will throw some light on the subject.
I suspend answering your letter, therefore, respecting
this until I shall have visited Monticello.
The British convention is before the Senate. It
commutes the sixth article 4,600,000 pounds sterling
payable in three annual instalments. It will meet
opposition there, and in the other House when an
appropriation is asked. It would be very ill judged
not to close, for it would revive their claim of twenty
odd millions of dollars awarded by the commissioners,
which they would hold as a rod forever over our heads,
to operate on our seaport towns and even on Congress
at will. It is now settled by our predecessors ; if the
bargain be hard, it is their work. That it is not more
hard has been the effect of our measures. If this be
128 Jefferson's Works
given up it can never be settled but by war. Affec-
tionate and respectful salutations to Mrs. Monroe and
yourself.
TO ABRAHAM BALDWIN.
WASHINGTON, April 14, 1802.
DEAR SIR,-I have prepared a catalogue for the
Library of Congress in conformity with your ideas
that books of entertainment are not within the scope
of it, and that books in other languages, where there
are not translations of them, are to ,be admitted
freely. I have confined the catalogue to those
branches of science which belong to the delibera-
tions of the members as statesmen, and in these have
omitted those desirable books, ancient and modern,
which gentlemen generally have in their private
libraries, but which cannot properly claim a place
in a collection made merely for the purposes of
reference. '
In history I have confined the histories to the
chronological works which give facts and dates with
a minuteness not to be found in narrations composed
for agreeable reading. Under the laws of nature
and nations I have put down everything I know of
worth possessing, because this is a branch of science
often under the discussion of Congress, and the books
written on it not to be found in private libraries. In
law I set down only general treatises for the purpose
of reference. The discussions under this head in
,
Supplementary Manuscripts 129
Congress are rarely so minute as to require or admit
that reports and special treatises should be intro-
duced. The Parliamentary section I have imagined
should be complete. It is only by having a law of
proceeding, and by every member having the means
of understanding it for himself and appealing to it,
that he can be protected against caprice and despot-
ism in the chair. The two great encyclopaedias
form a complete supplement for the sciences omitted .
in the general collection. should occasion happen to
arise for recurring to them. I have added a set of
dictionaries in the different languages, which may
be often wanting. This catalogue, combined with
what you may approve in those offered by others,
will enable you to form your general plan and to
select from it every year to the amount of the annual '
fund of those most wanting. I have omitted on it
those which, by the printed catalogue, I find you
already possess. In estimating the amount of an
annual selection, folios may be stated as costing one
and a half guineas, quartos a guinea, octavos 12 / -,
twelve mos 4 / - in England, and in France three-
fourths of those prices, in neat but not splendid
bindings. Accept assurances of my respect and
friendly consideration.
vol. xix---9
130 Jefferson's Works
TO THOMAS LAW.
WASHINGTON, May 31, 1802.
DEAR SIR,-I received, yesterday evening, your
letter of the 23d inst. informing me of the death
of Mrs. Washington, and I received it with great
and sincere concern. An acquaintance of five and
twenty years, in times and circumstances of great
and trying aspect, had made me a witness of her
constant course in whatsoever was benevolent and
virtuous in life, had marked her in my judgment
as one of the most estimable of women, and had
inspired me with an affectionate and respectful
attachment to her. This lesson is more felt, too.
as it renews the memory of a preceding one of
a worthy, of that degree which Providence with
its divine dispensations sees fit rarely to bestow
on us, whose services in the cause of man had
justly endeared him to the world and whose name
still is among the latest monuments of the age
wherein he lived, which time will extinguish.
My own sense of these losses enables me to sym-
pathize sincerely in the afflictions of the family.
to whom I pray you to tender assurances, and to
accept them yourself, of my highest esteem and
respect.
Supplementary Manuscripts 131
TO WILLIAM DUNBAR.
'WASHINGTON, MarCh 3, 1803.
SIR,-Your favor of the 8th of January has
been received and I have to return you thanks
for the two vocabularies. The memoir of Mr.
Durald has been forwarded to the Philosophical
Society. We shall be happy to see your history
of the Mississippi completed, as it is becoming one
of the most interesting parts of our country. The
only one where some of the tropical productions
can be maintained (?) among us. * * * * had only
a little mistaken the information I gave him * * * *
was not that you were removing altogether, but
that you meant shortly to take a trip to Europe
which I had understood from some other person
* * * * yourself.
The late interruption of our commerce at New
Orleans by the Spanish Intendant, combined with
the change of proprietors which Louisiana certainly,
and the Floridas possibly, are immediately to under-
go have produced a ' great sensation here ; while
some have wished to make it the immediate cause
of war which might damage our finances and
embarrass the administration of our government,
which, in the state of their political passions, would
be a countervail for the most serious public extrem-
ities, we have pursued what we believe a more
certain and more speedy means of restoring per-
manently the rights and conveniences of our
132 Jefferson's Works
commerce, whether we may succeed in the acqui-
sition of the island of New Orleans and the Floridas
peaceably for a price far short of the expense of
a war, we cannot say. But that we shall obtain
peaceably an immediate and firm re-establishment
of all our rights under the Spanish treaty every
circumstance known to us leads us to believe.
If contrary to expectations war should be necessary
to restore our rights, it is surely prudent to take
a little time for availing ourselves of the division
of Europe to strengthen ourselves for that war.
Nothing but the failure of every peaceable mode
of redress, nothing but dire necessity, should force
us from the path of peace which would be our
wisest pursuit, to embark in the broils and con-
tentions of Europe and become a satellite to any
power there. Yet this must be the consequence
if we fail in all possible means of re-establishing
our rights were we to enter into the war alone.
The Mississippi would be blockaded at least during
the continuance of that war by a superior naval
power, and all our Western States be deprived of
their commerce unless they would surrender them-
selves to the blockading power.
Great endeavors have been used from this quarter
to inflame the western people to take possession
of New Orleans without looking forward to the
use they could make of it with a blockaded river,
but I trust they will be unable, that a peaceable
redress will be quickest and most for their interests.
Supplementary Manuscripts 133
We shall endeavor to procure the Indian right of
soil, as soon as they can be prevailed on to part
with it, the whole left bank of the Mississippi to
a respectable breadth, and encourage a prompt
settlement, and thereby plant on the Mississippi
itself the means of its own defense and present
as strong a frontier as that on our Eastern border.
I pray you to accept assurances of any great esteem
and respect.
TO DR. BENJAMIN RUSH.
WASHINGTON, April 23,. 1803.
DEAR SIR,-Your friendly letter of March 12
was received in due time and with a due sense of
its value. I shall with confidence avail myself of
its general prescriptions and of the special should
the state of my health alter for the worse. At
present it wears a promising aspect.
At length I send you a letter long due and even
now but a sketch of what I wished to make it.
But your candor will find my just excuse in the
indispensable occupations of my public duties. I
communicate a copy of the syllabus to Dr. Priestley
in hope he will extend his work of Socrates and
Jesus compared. He views a part of the subject
differently from myself, but in the main object
of my syllabus we go perfectly together. Accept
my affectionate salutations and assurances of great
respect.
134 Jefferson's Works
TO HENRY DEARBORN.
MONTICELLO, August 23, 1803.
DEAR SIR,-I enclose you a letter from Mr.
Simpson to Mr. Madison showing very clearly
that our plan of having the gun carriages for the
Emperor of Morocco made in Europe cannot take
place. To cut short still further delay on this
subject I think we must furnish them from home.
You observe they must be of the very best and
fitted for land service. If we have such really
good, though wanting for our own service, it will
be better to send them and immediately replace
then here by new ones. Otherwise they should
be made and sent without delay. I think it had
been agreed that you would see to the execution
of the business. -
There is reason to apprehend that the govern-
ment of France, perhaps not well satisfied with
its bargain with us, will seize any pretext which
can be laid hold of to annul the treaty. They
have exacted from our minister a rigorous regard
for dates which will render it necessary for both
Houses of Congress to perform their respective
parts without a day's delay, and with as little
debate as possible, and that we have a public
armed ship ready to sail on the 31st day of October
to carry the ratification and if possible the stock
to France. Perhaps the last of your small vessels
which. shall go to the Mediterranean this season
Supplementary Manuscripts 135
may perform this office. But whether this or any
other will be best you will be so good as to consider
and have in readiness. It is best that as little as
possible be said as to the constitutional difficulty
and that on that Congress * * * * is necessary
without any explanation. An investigation of the
,
subject here among my books satisfies me that
our right to the river Perdido is solid, and to the
bay of St. Bernard very susceptible of being * * * *
Livingston and Morse express a clear opinion as
to the Perdido and advise us to act on it. Accept
my affectionate salutations and assurances of.great
esteem and regard.
P. S. When you shall have read Simpson's letter
be so good as to return it to me with your con-
clusion as to the carriages.
TO THE EMPEROR OF MOROCCO.
WASHINGTON, DeCember 20, 1803.
GREAT AND GOOD FRIEND,-I learn With great
concern the acts of violence which took place
between some vessels of your Majesty and of the
United States, and with equal pleasure that you
had promptly interposed and arrested the progress
of the misunderstanding. This proof of your dis-
position to remain in friendship with the United
States is duly estimated on my part and will be
reciprocated on all occasions by corresponding
136 Jefferson's Works
endeavors to preserve the peace and good under-
standing so happily subsisting between us.
Separated by a wide ocean from the nations of
Europe, and under circumstances peculiar to our-
selves, our practices and principles of intercourse
are not always the same with theirs. All religions
are equally independent here, our laws knowing
no distinction of country, of classes among indi-
viduals and with nations, our * * * * is justice
and reciprocity. In these principles of justice and
reciprocity was founded the treaty of peace and
friendship concluded with your Imperial father
and recently recognized by your Majesty. In this
recognition I willingly concur, promising that the
stipulations of that treaty shall be faithfully observed
on our part. We shall, moreover, avail ourselves of
every occasion of performing good offices to your
people and of manifesting the cordial friendship and
respect we bear to the person and character of your
Imperial Majesty and I pray God to have you, great
and good friend, in His safe and holy keeping.
Done at Washington in the United States of
America, etc.
TO JOHN LANGDON.
WASHINGTON, December 22, 1803.
MY DEAR SIR,-The enclosed commission was
made out immediately on the receipt of your recom-
mendation as its date will show; but as I wished
Supplementary Manuscripts 137
to accompany it with a line to you, it has lain by
me ever since waiting a moment of leisure to drop
you one. In the meantime the law is repealed:
but this commission will still do for existing cases.
I have the happiness to assure you that we shall
receive Louisiana without opposition, or rather
that we have received it, as we know that our
troops embarked for Natchez the 1st and 2d instant,
and would arrive at New Orleans on the 7th, where
possession would be instantly delivered, according
to arrangements agreed to between General Wil-
kinson and the French prefect. This matter quietly
finished, and peace made with the Emperor of
Morocco dictated by ourselves, leaves nothing in
our horizon but the little speck of Tripoli, where
the substitution of Preble for Morris will probably
soon enforce peace also. From both the contending
powers of Europe we have equal proofs of friend-
ship, but most especially Great Britain; we shall,
therefore, I hope, be able to maintain an impartial
and honorable neutrality. At home we learn from
all quarters that these measures have brought over
to us nearly the whole of our candid opponents,
except in three of the New England States, and
in Delaware; these we trust will in time be con-
vinced also. This, my friend, is a rapid view of
our affairs, and is as much as incessant interruption
and business will permit me to put on paper. Accept
my affectionate salutations and assurances of con-
stant esteem.
138 Jefferson's Works
TO GOVERNOR JOHN PAGE.
WASHINGTON, DeCember 23, 1803.
DEAR SIR,-Your favor of November 16, received
November 26, is now before me, and I enclose
you a letter of Mr. Gore which I presume we may
consider as the final result of our endeavor to
procure an asylum in the colony of Sierra Leone
for such persons of the description composing that
colony as we might find it expedient to send there.
Since the date of the resolution, which has been
the subject of this correspondence, the aspect of
affairs has undergone important changes. You can
judge of the probability of their settling down in
a form which may furnish that opening which the
resolution desired. As yet, however, direct pro-
positions for that purpose would be premature.
The acquisition of Louisiana may also procure
the opportunity desired. This will depend on the
manner in which the Legislature of the Union will
dispose of that country. An expectation of some
decision as to this had induced me to delay answering
your letter earlier; but no progress being yet made
in it, and a fear that the Legislature of Virginia
might rise before definite arrangements are taken
here, I do not venture on a further delay.
On the whole it appears probable that St. Dom-
inique or Louisiana may open to the Legislature
of Virginia the resource which their resolution
contemplated. Accept my affectionate salutations
and assurances of great consideration and respect.
Supplementary Manuscripts 139
TO THE DEY OF ALGIERS.
WASHINGTON, March 27, 1804
GREAT AND GOOD FRIEND,-I HAVE received your
letter of the 14th of October last and in it assur-
ances of the continuance of your friendly disposi-
tions toward the United States and of your attach-
ment to the treaty which binds us together. These
assurances are the more satisfactory as we also
are disposed to a faithful observance of our treaty,
which, settling, as between friends, a fixed measure
of what the one is bound to yield and the other has
a right to receive, prevents requisitions out of the
provisions of the treaty which sometimes it is
inconvenient and sometimes impracticable to com-
ply with.
Of the latter kind is your request of brass field-
pieces from us. The materials of which that metal
are compounded do not exist in this country, as
far as has been yet discovered. When we have
occasion for anything of brass, we seek it in the
countries of your neighborhood. We have, however,
a mine of iron, the only one perhaps which is known,
of such quality as to admit of field-pieces to be
cast as light and as strong as brass, more durable,
and less costly. This we use for field-pieces, and
knowing from our own experience its superior nature
I shall immediately order and send to you those
you request, instead of other articles of the annual€-
supplies stipulated in our treaty, I am persuaded
140 Jefferson's Works
that in so doing I shall execute your intentions
to your greater satisfaction. Adhering substantially
to our mutual stipulations, I shall, nevertheless,
take a pleasure in any occasional modification of
that which may suit your convenience and prove
our friendship to you.
I have just learned with great regret the loss
of the ship off Cadiz, laden by us with
naval stores for you. I regret it, not so much
for the value to us as the delay which our great
distance from you will necessarily occasion in
supplying the loss. Orders, however, are already
given to forward others without loss of time.
I pray God, great and good friend, to have you
in His holy keeping.
TO F. H. ALEXANDER YON HUMBOLDT.
WASHINGTON, May 28, 1804.
SIR,-I received last night your favor of the
24th, and offer you my congratulations on your
arrival here in good health, after a tour in the
course of which you have been exposed to so many
hardships and hazards. The countries you have
visited are of those least known and most interesting,
and a lively desire will be felt generally to receive
the information you will be able to give. No one
will feel it more strongly than myself, because
no one, perhaps, views this new world with more
partial hopes of its exhibiting an ameliorated
Supplementary Manuscripts 141
state of the human condition. In the new position
in which the seat of our government is fixed, We
have nothing curious to attract the observations
of a traveller, and can only substitute in its place
the welcome with which we should receive your
visit, should you find it convenient to add so much
to your journey.
Accept, I pray you, my respectful salutations
and assurances of great respect and consideration.
TO THE SECRETARY OF WAR
(HENRY DEARBORN.)
WASHINGTON, June 6, 1804.
The division of Louisiana into districts relating
to the military as much as to the civil administration,
will you be so good as to consider those proposed
by Governor Harrison, and we will then consider
the subject. My idea would be not to fix precisely
the dividing line between the districts, as we have
not information enough for that, but to use such
a mode of designation for these as we do for the
consular districts in foreign countries where we
are equally uninformed. I Would say, for example,
"the post of St. Louis shall be the seat of admin-
istration for its district, which district shall be
composed of all those parts of Louisiana, south of.
the Missouri, which are nearer to St. Louis than
to any other district seat. " This lays off the whole
country at once on the principle of distance, which
142 Jefferson's Works
is the chief ingredient in convenience, modified
by the division of a river where that is material.
I think the purchases of the Delawares and Pian-
kishaws, proposed by Governor Harrison, very
interesting and that the Delawares might at once
be informed that we will purchase, with an annuity
to be paid to them whenever they shall settle;
but before we can offer lands on the other side
the Mississippi to any tribe, we should be well
informed of the title to lands there. Should it not
be well to charge Governors Harrison and Claiborne
generally with this inquiry, and the commander of
each station specially, as far as his opportunity
extends, and that this be done and reported to us
without delay? Affectionate salutations.
TO ALEXANDER, EMPEROR OF RUSSIA.
WASHINGTON, June 15, 1804..
GREAT AND GOOD FRIEND,-Your friendly inter-
position for the relief of the crew of an American
frigate stranded on the coast of Tripoli -has been
recently made known to me. For this act of
benevolence and proof of your disposition to befriend
our young Republic its Secretary of State conveys
the official expression of its sensibility. But I
should illy satisfy my own feelings did I not add
my individual acknowledgments for a favor directly
tending to facilitate the administration of affairs
of my country with which I am personally charged.
Supplementary Manuscripts 143
To the barbarians whose habitual violations of
the laws of nature have produced the occasion
of this friendly office, we have sent expressions
of very different feelings by the squadron which
has just left our ports destined for theirs. Should
the Commodore find that in consequence of your
Imperial Majesty's interposition, they shall already
have done us voluntary justice, he will let them
owe to your favor his abstinence from every act
of force. Otherwise he will endeavor, by the means
he is furnished with, to convince them it will be
their interest to injure us no more.
I see with great pleasure the rising commerce
between our two countries. We have not gone
into the policy which the European nations have
so long tried and to so little effect of multiplying
commercial treaties. In national as in individual
dealings, more liberality will, perhaps, be found
in voluntary regulations than in those which are
measured out by the strict letter of a treaty, which,
whenever it becomes onerous, is made by forced
construction to mean anything or nothing, engenders
disputes, and brings on war. But your flag will
find in our harbors hospitality, freedom and pro-
tection and your subjects enjoy all the privileges
of the most favored nation. The favorable reception
of our consul at St. Petersburg, and the friendly
sentiments conveyed through your minister of
foreign affairs, is an earnest that our merchants
also will meet due favor in your ports.
144 Jefferson's Works
I avail myself of this occasion of expressing the
exalted pleasure I have felt in observing the various
acts of your administration during the short time
you have yet been on the throne of your country,
and seeing in them manifestations of the virtue
and wisdom from which they flow. What has
not your country to hope from a career which
has begun from such auspicious developments!
Sound principles, pursued with a steady step,
dealing out good progressively as your people are
prepared to receive and to hold it fast, cannot
fail to carry them and yourself far in€ the improve-
ment of their condition during the course of your
life.
I pray to God that it may long continue for
their happiness and your glory, and that too He
may always have you in His safe and holy keeping.
TO THE BROTHERS OF THE CHOCTAW NATION.
WASHINGTON, MarCh 13, 1805.
MY CHILDREN,-I learn with great Satisfaction
that you have leased to us three stations of one
mile square each on the road from Chickesaws to
Natchez, and one on the Pearl river; and you desire
me to send you a paper under my own hand to
show to your warriors that these lands are not
sold but lent. I now accordingly declare that the
property in those lands remains in your nation,
that they are lent to us for a rent of four hundred
Supplementary Manuscripts 145
pounds weight of powder annually, and that your
nation has a right to take them back at their pleasure ;
and this paper now signed by my own hand will
be evidence of these things to future generations.
We will, according to your desire, settle but one .
white family on each section, and take care that
they conduct themselves peaceably and friendly
toward you; or being made known to me that
they do otherwise they shall be removed. They
will be placed there merely for the accommodation
of our paper carriers and travellers.
My children, you have asked whether I did
not promise to send you ploughs to enable you
to improve in husbandry? I did promise it and
immediately sent the ploughs; but by a mistake
in forwarding them, they were delayed some time
before we knew of it. You must, however, have
received them before this time.
You ask if I did not promise to send your deputa-
tion ten rifles for yourselves and other deserving
warriors? I did not promise it. You said they
would be acceptable, but I said nothing in reply.
But although .I did not promise, yet to show my
good will to you, I will send you the rifles.
You ask if we will allow commissions to you
according to your rank and medals and commis-
sions to such chiefs as you may appoint to assist
in the government of your country? It has not
been a custom with us to give commissions to our
friends among the red men; and it is a new thing.
VOL. XIX-I O
146 Jefferson's Works
We will take it into consideration. We wish to
do what is agreeable to you, if we find we can do
it with prudence.
We shall be willing to give medals to a certain
number of distinguished chiefs who aid you in
the government of your country, and who mani-
fest dispositions to preserve peace and friendship
between your nation and ours. We wish you,
therefore, to recommend such to us.
My children, persevere in your friendship to
the United States. We will never injure you
nor permit you to be injured by any white people,
and we trust you will take care that none of our
people are injured by yours. Encourage among
you the cultivation of the earth, raising of cattle,
spinning and weaving, and we will assist' you in
it. With plenty of food and clothing you will
raise many children, multiply, be strong and happy.
May the Great Spirit protect and prosper you in
all your just pursuits. Farewell.
TO THE CHIEFS OF THE CHEROKEE NATION.(1)
WASHINGTON, ; January 10, 1806.
MY FRIENDS AND CHILDREN, CHIEFLY OF THE
CHEROKEE NATION,-HAVING now finished our busi-
ness and finished it I hope to mutual satisfaction,
I cannot take leave of you without expressing the
@#(1) This letter is one of the finest examples of Jefferson's written
communications to the Aborigines, @#
Supplementary Manuscripts 147
satisfaction I have received from your visit. I
see with my own eyes that the endeavors we have
been making to encourage and lead you in the
way of improving your situation have not been
unsuccessful; it has been like grain sown in good
ground, producing abundantly. You are becoming
farmers, learning the use of the plough and the
hoe, enclosing your grounds and employing that
labor in their cultivation which you formerly
employed in hunting and in war; and I see hand-
some specimens of cotton cloth raised, spun and
wove by yourselves. You are also raising cattle
and hogs for your food, and horses to assist your
labors. Go on, my children, in the same way and
be assured the further you advance in it the happier
and more respectable you will be.
Our brethren, whom you have happened to
meet here from the West and Northwest, have
enabled you to compare your situation now with
what it was formerly. They also make the com-
parison, and they see how far you are ahead of
them, and seeing what you are they are encouraged
to do as you have done. You will find your next
want to be mills to grind your corn, which by
relieving your women from the loss of time in
beating it into meal, will enable them to spin and
weave more. When a man has enclosed and
improved his farm, builds a good house on it and
raised plentiful stocks of animals, he will wish
when he dies that these things shall go to his wife
148 Jefferson's Works
and children, whom he loves more than he does
his other relations, and for whom he will work
with pleasure during his life. You will, there-
fore, find it necessary to establish laws for this.
When a man has property, earned by his own
labor, he will not like to see another come and
take it from him because he happens to be stronger,
or else to defend it by spilling blood. You will
find it necessary then to appoint good men, as
judges, to decide contests between man and man,
according to reason and to the rules you shall
establish. If you wish to be aided by our counsel
and experience in these things we shall always
be ready to assist you with our advice.
My children, it is unnecessary for me to advise
you against spending all your time and labor in
warring with and€ destroying your fellow-men,
and wasting your own members. You already
see the folly and iniquity of it. Your young men;
however, are not yet sufficiently sensible of it.
Some of them cross the Mississippi to go and
destroy people who have never done them an injury.
My children, this is wrong and must not be; if
we permit them to cross the Mississippi to war
with the Indians on the other side of that river,
we must let those Indians cross the river to take
revenge on you. I say again, this must not be.
The Mississippi now belongs to us. It must not
be a river of blood. It is now the water-path
along which all our people of Natchez, St. Louis,
Supplementary Manuscripts 149
Indiana, Ohio ; Tennessee, Kentucky and the western.
parts of Pennsylvania and Virginia are constantly
passing with their property, to and from New
Orleans. Young men going to war are not easily
restrained. Finding our people on the river they
will rob them, perhaps kill them. This would
bring on a war between us and you. It is better
to stop this in time by forbidding your young
men to go across the river to make war. If they go
to visit or to live with the Cherokees on the other
side of the river we shall not object to that. That
country is ours. We will permit them to live in it.
My children, this is what I wished to say to you.
To go on in learning to cultivate the earth and
to avoid war. If any of your neighbors injure
you, our beloved men whom we place with you
will endeavor to obtain justice for you and we
will support them in it. If any of your bad people
injure your neighbors, be ready to acknowledge
it and to do them justice. It is more honorable to
repair a wrong than to persist in it. Tell all your
chiefs, your men, women and children, that I take
them by the hand and hold it fast. That I am
their father, wish their happiness and well-being,
and am always ready to promote their good.
My children, I thank you for your visit and pray
to the Great Spirit who made us all and planted us all
in this land to live together like brothers that He
will conduct you safely to your homes, and grant you
to find your families and your friends in good health.
150 Jefferson's Works
TO WILLIAM H. HARRISON.
WASHINGTON, January 16, 1806.
DEAR SIR,-Your several unanswered letters of
June 18, August 2 9, November I a and a o, prove
me an unpunctual correspondent. It is not because
I do less than I might do, but that I have more than
I can do. I will now summarily reply to their several
articles. And first I pray you to deliver to the legis-
lature the inclosed letter in answer to the address
they favored me with. Of the two persons chosen to
supply the place of Mr. Hay in the legislative council
I nominated Mr. Bond, which nomination has been,
with others, three weeks before the Senate. So has
that of Judge Griffin, for the Michigan territory. I
am told it is doubtful whether the Senate will con-
firm the last. I have earnestly inculcated the neces-
sity of raising the salaries of the territorial governors
and judges and it will be attempted this session,
but with what success is very doubtful.
The British have clearly no right to trade with
the Indians in Louisiana. It is therefore decided
to keep that trade to ourselves as the only means
of governing those Indians peaceably. This Will
render it important to be particularly friendly to
the Sacs, Foxes, Kickapoos, Sioux, and other
Indians residing on the border between the British
and us and by taking their pelts and furs at higher
prices and selling them goods at lower prices than
the trade will bear without loss, to let them see
their own interest in an exclusive adhesion to us,
Supplementary Manuscripts 151
What we lose with them we must make up from
other quarters, our principle being neither to gain
nor lose on the whole Indian trade together.
The late stroke of Pottawottomies on the Osages
must be' strongly reprimanded and no exertion
spared to recover and restore the prisoners and
make satisfaction for the killed. The Indians on
this side the Mississippi must understand that
that river is now ours and it is not to be a river
of blood. If we permit them on this side to cross
it to war against the other side we must permit
the other side to come over to this for revenge.
The safety of our settlements will not admit of
this and in the present case of Pottawottomies they
should be made to understand that unless they
make to the Osages every satisfaction in their
power and satisfy us they will cease crossing the
Mississippi to war on nations which never injured
them, we may give a free passage and support
to the Osages to come over and take such revenge
as will glut them. But it is from the Secretary
of War that you will receive what is to be considered
as official, and as your guide in this business. Among
the Mississippi Indians now here is one Pottawot-
tomi chief. Nothing has yet been said to him
on this subject, but some explanations will take
place before he leaves us, which probably will
not be till late in February.
Accept my friendly salutations and assurances
of great esteem and respect.
152 Jefferson's Works
TO THE REVEREND DOCTOR G. C. JENNER.
MONTICELLO, May 14, 1806.
SIR,-I have received a copy of the evidence
at large respecting the discovery of the vaccine
inoculation which you have been pleased to send
me, and for which I return you my thanks. Having
been among the early converts, in this part of the
globe, to its efficiency, I took an early part in
recommending it to my countrymen. I avail my-
self of this occasion of rendering you a portion of
the tribute of gratitude due to you from the whole
human family. Medicine has never before pro-
duced any single improvement of such utility.
Harvey's discovery of the circulation of the blood was
a beautiful addition to our knowledge of the animal
economy, but on a review of the practice of medicine
before and since that epoch, I do not see any great
amelioration which has been derived from that
discovery. You have erased from the calendar
of human afflictions one of its greatest. Yours
is the comfortable reflection that mankind can
never forget that you have lived. Future nations
will know by history only that the loathsome
small-pox has existed and by you has been extir-
pated. '
Accept my fervent wishes for your health and
happiness and assurances of the greatest respect
and consideration.
Supplementary Manuscripts 153
TO ALBERT GALLATIN.
WASHINGTON, June 21, 1806.
Judging by Price's survey of Ocracock, the only
position for the custom house which seems to
come into competition with the point B, recom-
mended by Mr. Taylor, is that part of Beacon
Island opposite to the point marked a. But,
perhaps Wallace's channel may be the most used.
The form you propose, No. I, would include Beacon
Island, and on that account would be preferable,
as it would give us greater latitude hereafter should
future representations prove a to be a more con-
venient point than B. I should prefer the mode
of designation used in your form No. 2, only vary-
ing it so as to comprehend Beacon Island in some
such way as the following:
"So much of Ocracock Inlet and of the shores
adjacent as is contained between Shellcastle and
Beacon Islands and Portsmouth point, including the
whole of the said point which lies in the district
of Ocracock and also the whole of the said islands
and of the grounds adjacent to Shellcastle Island,
whereon a beacon or lighthouse is erected, as is the
property .of the United States."
But this is barely suggested and left to yourself.
Affectionate salutations.
154 Jefferson's Works
TO PIERRE AUGUSTE ADET.
WASHINGTON, June 29, 1806.
SIR,-Your two letters of March 3 and 6 have
been duly received, and with them the copy of
your elementary. lessons in chemistry for which I
pray you to accept my thanks. My occupation
not permitting me to read anything but the papers
of the day, I reserve it among the treasures to be
carried into that retirement to which I shall with-
draw at the close of my present period. I hope
that in the meantime nothing will happen to lessen
that prosperity which results from our external
peace and internal tranquillity. The great body
of our citizens being engaged in the pursuit of
agriculture in sparse settlement ensure to us the
continuance of order and good government. Our
sea-port towns indeed have the vices inseparable
from crowded habitations of men. But they are
but specks on the vast surface of our country,
affecting very little the general character of the
nation.
Dr. Deveze, who is the subject of your letter
of March 3, had I believe great merit in the services
he rendered in Philadelphia on the first visitation
of yellow fever in 'g 3. The, courage with which
he exposed himself to it, when its novelty fright-
ened away the physicians and 12 inhabitants of the
place, marked a mind of superior benevolence.
He was among the earliest, too, in noting the fact
Supplementary Manuscripts 155
that it is not infectious. Experience has since
well established that opinion. Not but that there
are still responsible physicians who maintain the
contrary, supporting themselves by so extending
the definition of yellow fever, as to comprehend
fevers having strong features of distinction. Still
it is unquestionable that that fever which has
afflicted our cities since 1793 and is particularly
distinguished by the name yellow fever, has never
been communicated by going into the particu-
lar part of a town where it prevails, and within
whose atmosphere only it can be taken. And
further, it is certain that this particular fever which
seizes natives as well as foreigners, has never ex-
tended further south in the United States than
Alexandria. The fevers of Norfolk, Charleston and
New Orleans, which have been gratuitously called
yellow fever, have seized new comers only, not
natives or long residents, and are truly classed
with autumnal fevers.
With respect to Dr. Deveze's request of some
acknowledgment for his services, your knowledge
of our Constitution enables you to see that the
General Government is restrained to the exercise
of those powers only which are enumerated in
the Constitution. That all others are reserved to
the State governments and consequently the
remuneration of discoveries or improvements in
the arts and sciences, and services rendered to
the public health, his application can of course
156. Jefferson's Works
be received by the government of Pennsylvania
only, to which State the service was rendered.
The General Government cautiously refrains from
intermeddling with the concerns of the separate
States.
I hope Dr. Deveze will see in these considerations
the obstacles which forbid the interference of our
National Government in these cases, while in my
personal sentiments and esteem I render him the
justice he merits.
I pray you to accept, yourself, my salutations
and assurances of great respect and esteem.
TO ANDREW JACKSON.
WASHINGTON, December 3, 1806.
SIR,-I have duly received your letter, proffering
the services of a very respectable corps of volunteers,
should the injuries offered our country render it
necessary. Always a friend to peace and believing
it to promote eminently the happiness and pros-
perity of mankind, I am ever unwilling that it
should be disturbed as long as the rights and interests
of the nations can be preserved. But whensoever
hostile aggressions on these require a resort to war,
we must meet our duty and convince the world
that we are just friends and brave enemies. Whether
our difficulties with Spain will issue in peace or
war is still uncertain, and what provisional measures
shall be taken for the latter alternative, is now
Supplementary Manuscripts 157
under consideration of the legislature. The offer
of service which your patriotism has now made
to your ,country is a pledge that it will not be
withheld in whatever the national councils may
authorize.
Accept my thanks on the public behalf for the
readiness with which you have made this honor-
able tender, with respectful salutations and assur-
ances of great consideration and esteem.
TO JOHN LANGDON.
WASHINGTON, DeCember 22, 1806.
MY DEAR SIR,-Your letter of the 12th is this
moment put into my hands, and as it reminds
me of my default in not answering the former,
I take up my pen to answer instanter.
Our prospects are great if we can preserve external
and internal peace. With England I firmly expect
a friendly arrangement. With Spain we shall
possibly have blows; but they will hasten, instead
of preventing, a peaceable settlement. The most
instant pressure is now from among ourselves,
our Catiline is at the head of an armed body (we
know not its strength), and his object is to seize
New Orleans, from thence attack Mexico, place
himself on the throne of Montezuma, add Louisi-
ana to his empire, and the Western States from
the Alleghany if he can. I do not believe he
will attain the crown; but neither am I certain
158 Jefferson's Works
the halter will get its due. A few days will let us
see whether the Western States suppress them-
selves this insurrectionary enterprise, or we shall
be obliged to make a great national armament
for it. In the end, I am satisfied it will exhibit to the
world another proof that the people of the United
States are qualified for self-government. Our
friends, the federalists, chuckle at all this; but
in justice I must add, we have found some faithful
among those in the West.
Our session is proceeding with harmony. They
have great questions before them; such in my
opinion as look more to the tranquil happiness
and prosperity of a nation than ever before pre-
sented to a deliberative body. God bless you
and have you always in His holy keeping.
TO HENRY LEE.
WASHINGTON, February 1, 1807.
SIR,-Your letter of January 17 came to hand
last night If I ever .saw or heard of a Mr. Norris
of Baltimore, I do not remember either his name
or person. I never saw or heard of any list of
names of the adherents of Burr; still less of one
containing your name. I never have seen or heard
your name coupled with Burr's but in a newspaper
paragraph, mentioning that you were gone from
Staunton to join him. Which, as it went through
several papers, you have probably seen yourself,
Supplementary Manuscripts 159
and certainly I never named you to any one as
having any connection with Burr, much less gave
any one liberty to announce it for me. Accept
my salutations.
P. S. I return Mr. Harrison's letter.
TO ANDREW JACKSON.
WASHINGTON, MARCH 21, 1807,
SIR,-In my letter of December 3, answering
yours which offered the service of a corps of vol-
unteers, I informed you that the legislature had
then under consideration in what way they should
authorize the Executive to accept those patriotic
tenders. They accordingly passed the act of which
I now enclose you a copy.
Although the present state of things on the
western side of the Mississippi does not threaten
any immediate collision with our neighbors in
that quarter, and it is our wish they should remain
undisturbed until an amiable adjustment may take
place, yet as this does not depend on ourselves
alone, it is prudent to be prepared to meet any
movements which may occur. The laws of a
former session of Congress for keeping a body of
100,000 militia in readiness for service at a moment's
warning, are still in force. But by the act now
included the service of volunteers may be accepted
which will, of course, render a resort to the former
act unnecessary.
160 Jefferson's Works
In consequence, therefore, of the patriotic zeal
which prompted your former offer, I now solicit
your best endeavors toward carrying this act into
execution. The persons who shall engage will not
be called from their homes until some aggression
committed or intended shall render it necessary.
When called into action, it will not be for a lounging
but for an active and, perhaps, distant service. I
know the effect of this consideration in kindling that
ardor which prevails for the service, and I count
on it for filling up the. numbers requisite without
delay. To yourself, I am sure, it must be as
desirable as it is to me, to transfer this service
from the great mass of the militia under your
charge, to that portion of them to whose habits
and enterprise active and distant service is most
congenial.
With respect to the organization and officering
those who shall be engaged within your State,
the act itself, will be your guide. And it is desirable
we should be kept informed of the progress of the
business. I must pray you to report the same,
from time to time, to the Secretary of War, who
will correspond with you on all the details arising
out of it.
Accept my salutations and assurances of great
esteem and respect.
Supplementary Manuscripts 161
TO JOEL BARLOW.
WASHINGTON, June 14, 1807.
DEAR SIR,-I return you Dr. Triplett's letter
to Mr. O'Brien with thanks for the communication.
Coxe remains at Tunis only till we can find some
one of prudence and good sense equal to the station,
of honesty sufficient to be trusted with the expen-
diture of moneys without account and willing to
be located there. Do you know such a man? I
do not. Davis was an unfortunate appointment.
I knew it before he went away, but after it was
too much fixed to alter. If he carries into execution
the intention he expresses of visiting London and
Paris, it will furnish us a ground for correcting
our error.
Before this reaches you, you will probably have
heard of the arrival of Wilkinson at Norfolk on the
10th with ten important witnesses.
When are we to see you here? I hope when
we do it will be as a resident. Will not Mrs. Barlow
and yourself meet your friends here on the birth-
day of our Constitution? Shall we not have from
our first poet a national ode for that and all other
festive days, to be to us what the Marseilles Hymn
was to the French, God Save Great George to the
English, and adapted to the exalted and already
adopted tune of the miserable ditty, " Hail Columbia"?
Should Mrs. Barlow and yourself come on, I
would propose to you for August and September
VOL. XIX-11
162 Jefferson's Works
a tour through the upper country of Virginia,
which you will find a very healthy and a very fine
one, tacking about at Monticello, where we shall
bc happy to detain you as long as your time will
permit. It is only one hundred and twenty miles
from this, and good roads. I salute you with
affection and respect.
TO GEORGE HAY.
WASHINGTON, October 11, 1807.
DEAR SIR,-As I understand by the newspapers
that the examination of. the witnesses in Burr's
case and that of the other persons accused is closed,
I must solicit as early a communication as possible
of the proceedings and evidence. Congress being
so near meeting, and a copy being to be made
out, so that each House may have one, it is evident
we shall have no time to spare. If your copy for
us is not wholly ready, perhaps you could send it
by piecemeal as it is ready, which would enable
us to be forwarding it in the same way. I salute
you with great esteem and respect.
TO F. A. DELACROIX.
WASHINGTON, December 21, 1807.
SIR,-Your letter on the subject of military
service was received on the 2d instant. Our
foreign relations are certainly in a very unsettled
Supplementary Manuscripts 163
state, but whether they will terminate in war
cannot yet be foreseen. The decision of that ques-
tion being given by our Constitution to the legis-
lature, it would be premature in the Executive
to accept offers of military service before the
competent authority has decided on their employ-
ment. The readiness of your offer, however, still
merits the acknowledgments which I now make
for them, and when the proper moment shall arrive,
it will be my duty to avail my country of the best
talents which can be procured for its service. I
return you the paper which was enclosed in your
letter.
Your favor of September 29 was not received
until two days ago. I have with pleasure sent
to Mr. Mackay my subscription to the book you
recommend. No period in human history merits
more to have all its truths produced than that
of the French Revolution. I am only sorry that
the new lights which your materials are to throw
upon it are to be passed through the medium of
translation only. The best translation can render
a sentiment but imperfectly, often falsely. A vast
deal of human misery has already flowed from
this revolution, accompanied by some good, but
what will be its permanent effect on the happiness
of mankind those who come after us will decide.
I salute you with great respect.
164 Jefferson's Works
TO GEORGE HAY.
WASHINGTON, February 16, 1809.
DEAR SIR,-I think it was Mr. Wythe's practice
to assign in the body of his decrees the reasons
on which they were founded. If this was done
in the case of Henderson and Peyton, you will
oblige me by obtaining a copy of the decree (to
be charged by the clerk to Mr. Peyton) and enclosing
it to 'me. Some property is offered of the value
of which I can better judge when I see the reasons
of the decree, and can estimate the probability
of affirmance or reversal.
Burr, who gave you so much trouble, has become
absolutely invisible. There are conjectures of his
being in Philadelphia, but nobody can say they
have seen him.
Ohio seems a second time to have done her
duty to her sister States. Mr. Giles has brought
forward a bill to amend our criminal law, but,
however necessary, I have no idea that a bill con-
taining a variety of modifications of the law can
ever get through a House where there are a hundred
lawyers. I salute you with great esteem and
respect.
Supplementary Manuscripts 165
TO G. HYDE DE NEUVILLE.
WASHINGTON, February 17, 1808.
SIR,-On the 13th instant I had the pleasure
of receiving your favor of December 22, covering
one from Madame d'Houdetot, of whom I had not
received information for several years. I am happy
to learn that she is living and enjoying a retire-
ment in comfort. The proofs of friendship I
received from her in France were such as to make
a lasting impression on my mind and to inspire
me with sincere concern for her welfare. Besides
the constant wish to render services to strangers
of merit, the interest she feels in your situation
is an additional title to my readiness to be useful
to you. In answer to your enquiries whether you
can acquire and hold lands in the United States
without becoming a citizen, I have to observe
that as far as I have learnt, it is a general policy
with the several States not to permit this. I have
made the most extensive enquiry I could on this
occasion, whether any one of these States has varied
from this policy, but I cannot find any one has
ox that there is any part of the Union where a
person not being a citizen can hold lands, except
in this District of Columbia. I am inclined also
to believe that this cannot be done through the
medium of any other person as a trustee, because
I suppose the trust would be escheat to the public
as the lands themselves would. But of this the
166 Jefferson's Works
lawyers can give you information more to be relied
on than mine. I tender you my salutations and
assurances of respect.
TO MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.
WASHINGTON, April 28, 1808.
MY DEAR SIR,-I wrote you last on the 14th of
July, since which I have received your several
favors of July 8, August 11, September 20, December
and January 12. This last has been a sincere
affliction to me. My knowledge of the extraor-
dinary worth of our deceased friend, her amiable
and excellent character, her value to yourself,
her family and friends, and the void it would make
at the house of La Grange, sufficiently apprise
me of the immensity of this loss. But on this
subject I will say no more; for experience in the
same school has taught me that time and silence
are the only medicines.
I will now proceed to your affairs. I mentioned
in a former letter that Mr. Gallatin had compro-
mised the claims of the city of New Orleans by
a lin.e to be run 600 yards from the outer lines
of the town. So that what was beyond that became€
open to your location and left it clear of dispute.
I have not yet learned what location of the residue
has been made by Mr. Duplantier. Through an
indirect channel I know that on the 13th of Novem-
ber last he located 10,000 acres, and that on the
Supplementary Manuscripts 167
15th of March the surveyor had finished surveying
9,000 acres of them. Where they lie particularly
I do not know, but as Mr. Duplantier had the first
choice they must be good and well situated. The
moment the surveys are brought here I will sign
the grants, which in the meantime are as secure
as if already signed. I am sorry to learn that
your necessities are so pressing as to induce you
to propose a sale of them at this time. If I am
not deceived in my anticipations of the rise in
value of property near New Orleans, they will
double in value three times within ten or twelve
years. That is to say, that twelve years hence
they will be worth eight times what they now
are. How desirable then, my dear friend, must
it be for the future welfare of yourself and family
that the necessity of selling could be postponed
for that term. The payment of interest is a mere
nothing in comparison of the rise in value. A
dozen years hence the sale of one-eighth will pay
as much as that of the whole now. And should
it be insisted that the payment of interest be
annually made, this may be done by an annual
sale of a few lots adjacent to the city of New Orleans.
I am not without hopes that in Europe, where the
safe placing of funds in these times of uncertainty
must be an object with many, that you may be able
to effect this on the hypothecation of these lands
which, from the moment of their being surveyed,
become a safe and fixed subject of hypothecation.
168 Jefferson's Works
I spoke with Colonel Monroe on this subject
on his return and lately wrote to him. He answers
me in these words: "I think I informed you or
Mr. Madison that the Barings had agreed to wait
the term mentioned in your letter (ten years) or
some such term, for the reimbursement of the
money with interest, which they had advanced
to General Lafayette on being secured in it. Such
was the fact, it having been communicated to me
by Alexander Baring for your and Mr. Madisan's
information, just before I left London. It seems,
therefore, most desirable to proceed on that idea
and to give information of it to Lafayette. I
will, however, be happy to write Mr. Baring, if you
deem it necessary, after receiving this information. "
Thus you see the practicability of. procuring a
postponement of this portion of your wants, and
I should suppose the genius and knowledge of
our friend Mr. Parker would readily find capitalists
and effect negotiations for the further sum necessary
for you on the hypothecation of funds so solid as
these, and than which I do not think more solid
can be found on earth.
I am the more encouraged to hope you may
avoid a sale by information I have this moment
received from Monsieur Mon-Tarbe, who is this
far on his return from Charleston, and who tells
me he is authorized by Mr: Hager of South Carolina
to inform you that he has secured for you a debt
from some General (whose name Monsieur Mon-
Supplementary Manuscripts 169
Tarbe does not recollect, but I presume the late
General Greene's estate) of twenty or twenty-five
thousand dollars, for which you have only to send
" vos titres " (this was his expression) and the
money would be paid instantly. With this wind-
fall, with Mr. Baring's indulgence, and the talents
and friendship of Mr. Parker, or some other of
your friends, I cannot help hoping you may post-
pone the sale of your lands and avoid the cruel
sacrifice that would now occasion.
My zeal for your interest has occasioned me,
perhaps, to press this subject on you too much,
but you know the sincerity of the motives and
will excuse it. A short visit to this place and
New Orleans, if you cannot make a long one,
would enable you to judge for yourself better
than all your friends can€ do for you.
I will not write news to you lest it should endanger
passage of my letter. I will barely mention that
Mr. Madison will most unquestionably be elected€
my successor, by a majority of three to one, and
rather probably by an unanimous vote. The news-
papers may deceive abroad, but all' this is well
understood here. Till the last autumn, I have
every autumn written to Madame de Tesse and
sent her a box of seeds. I saw with infinite morti-
fication that they were either carried into England
or arrived so late as to answer no purpose to her.
The state of the ocean the last fall was, and con-
tinues to be, so desperate that it is vain to attempt
170 Jefferson's Works
anything again till that be changed. By that
time I shall be maker of my own time and can
never employ it more in gratifying my own feelings
than in doing what will be acceptable to her. Assure
her of my continued friendship, be so good as to
add my respects to Monsieur de Tesse and to accept
yourself the assurance of my affectionate attach-
ment and respect.
TO THOMAS PAINE.
WASHINGTON, July 17, 1808.
DEAR SIR,-Your favor of the 8th received
some days ago. Mr. Holmes did apply to me in
the course of the late session for information
regarding some application of yours, the par-
ticulars of which I do not now recollect. But
I well remember it was on some matter which
took place while I was not a member of Congress
and, therefore, knew nothing of but what was
on the records. I was absent from Congress from
1777 to 1803, being during that interval closely
employed by my own State. I advised him to
examine the files of the Department of State and
have no doubt he obtained all the information
they furnish.
Your ideas expressed in the latter part of your
letter are undoubtedly correct. They were taken
up the moment the law passed giving a power
of suspending the embargo in whole or in part
Supplementary Manuscripts 171
on the repeal of the decrees or orders of council.
As yet we have reached no fruit from our endeavors.
Proposing to absent myself from this place
during the sickly season now approaching and
much occupied with the preparations, I must
here place my salutations and assurances of great
esteem and respect.
TO ARCHIBALD STUART.
WASHINGTON, October 22, 1808.
DEAR SIR,-A Mr. William Jenkings, who lives
four or five miles from the Natural Bridge, and
whom I suppose tn be a merchant, called on me
two days ago to propose to purchase my lands
at the bridge. I asked him some questions about
the adjacent land in order to get his ideas of the
value. He said the adjacent tract had been sold
two or three times at about ten dollars and some
of it as high as four pounds the acre. I enquired
if the land on mine was as good. I think he said
it was, but that it was all thin land, would not
make a good farm, but that his object was to erect
a public house there, as the curiosity of the bridge
drew great numbers to see it. I told him the
idea of selling it had never before presented itself
to my mind, and he concluded to call on me at
Monticello in March next.
You will do me the favor to make inquiry what
the land should sell for according to prices in that
172 Jefferson's Works
neighborhood, and without taking the bridge into
consideration, which as a curiosity gives value
to the stand. To me the money would be of more
value and would be convenient on breaking up
here. You have been so kind as to attend to
the payment of the taxes and it is now several
years since I have made any reimbursement, so
that it must now amount to something sensible.
Be so good as to let me know its amount and it
shall be immediately remitted. Should the pay-
ment have escaped attention so long as to endanger
the land, I would pray it to be immediately secured.
When I come home I will find some means of relieving
you from this trouble. As soon as you can give
me information of the value I shall be happy to
hear from you. I salute you with constant friend-
ship and respect.
TO ROBERT FULTON.
MONTICELLO, April 16, 1810.
DEAR SIR,-I received yesterday, on my return
from a journey, your letter of March 28th and have
to thank you for the drawing of your self-moving
belier hydraulique, which a first reading shows
to be simple and ingenious, and I have no doubt
will answer. It shall have my early attention.
The object of this prompt reply to your letter,
is the offer you so kindly made of lending me your
Supplementary Manuscripts 173
dynamometer. It will be the greatest favor you
can do me.
The Agricultural Society of the Seine sent me
one of Guillaume's famous ploughs, famous for
taking but half the moving power of their best
ploughs before used. They, at the same time,
requested me to send them one of our best, with
my mould board to it. I promised I would, as
soon as I retired home and could see to its con-
struction myself. In the meantime I wrote to
a friend at Paris to send me a dynamometer, which
he did. Unfortunately this, with some other
valued articles of mine, were lost on its passage
from Washington to Monticello. I have made
the plough and am greatly deceived if it is not
found to give less resistance than theirs. In fact
I think it is the finest plough which has ever been
constructed in America. But it is the actual
experiment alone which can decide this, and I
was with great reluctance about to send off the
plough untried when I received your kind offer.
I will pray you to send the instrument to Mr.
Jefferson of Richmond by some careful passenger
in the stage, who will see that it does not miscarry
by the way; or by some vessel bound from New
York direct to Richmond, which is the safest
though slowest conveyance. I suppose there can
never be a week that some vessel is not coming.
I sincerely wish the torpedo may go the whole
length you expect of putting down navies. I wish
174 Jefferson's Works
it too much not to become an easy convert and
to give it all my prayers and interest. Accept
assurances of my great esteem and respect.
TO DR. WILLIAM EUSTIS.
(SECRETARY OF WAR)
MONTECILLO, May 30, 1810.
DEAR SIR,-In the action brought against me
by E. Livingston on the subject of the batture,
the counsel employed desire me, without delay, to
furnish them with the grounds of defense, that
they may know what pleas to put in. To do this
a communication of the papers in the several public
offices material tu the case is very essential. You
will be so kind as to have selected such of those
deposited in your office as may offer either useful
information, or evidence on the subject, on my
assurance that they shall be faithfully and promptly
returned, after noting from them what I may
think important. Mr. Smith, the head clerk of
your office, is so well acquainted with this subject.
that I think he can readily make the selection
with your permission. I must particularly ask a
copy of General Dearborne's letter or order removing
the aggressors by force. This was between the
dates of 1807, Nov. 27, and Jan. 29, 1808. I
should be glad that a list of the papers sent me
be taken, that their return may be verified. Accept
the assurances of my esteem and respect
Supplementary Manuscripts 175
TO W. B. GILES.
MONTICELLO, NOVember 12, 1810.
DEAR SIR,-You have heard of the suit brought
by E. Livingston against me on the subject of the
batture. This has rendered it necessary for me
to make a statement of the facts for the use of
my counsel, and the justification which they offer
being derived from certain systems of foreign law
in force at New Orleans, which I have had more
time to enquire into then they. I have been led
to go into a full investigation of both the law and
fact of the case. This I now enclose to you with
the following view: I am apprehensive that Living-
ston's assiduities and intrigue may induce Congress
to some vote referring his claim to judges or, com-
missioners. The countenance of such a vote would
impress a jury sensitively and unfavorably to me.
I wish the matter to rest as it does till the trial,
and Congress may leave it so with the more pro-
priety, inasmuch as Livingston himself has trans-
ferred it from before them to another tribunal.
I have thought I might rely on your justice as
well as your friendship to allude to this case in the
Senate so far as to prevent his obtaining there
any vote injurious to a fair trial; and to satisfy
your conscience that this will do him no injustice,
I ask your perusal of the enclosed. I am sensible
it is of a revolting length, but the variety and
novelty of the points it brings forward will not
176 Jefferson's Works
be uninteresting to you as a lawyer. When you
shall have read it, be so good as to send it by post
to Mr. Eppes for which purpose I enclose a franked
cover. I have requested of him to bestow in the
House of Representatives the same attention I ask
of you in the Senate, and from both I request
that no communication of the topics of my defense
may be made to anybody, unless indeed, any
attempts in Congress might render it necessary to
use them. You are sensible what advantage a
knowledge of them would give my adversary.
Were this case before an impartial .court it would
never give me a moment's concern, but Livingston
would never have brought it in such a court The
deep-seated enmity of one judge and utter nullity
of the other, with the precedent of Burr's case,
lessen the confidence which the justice of my case
would otherwise give me. Should the Federalists,
from Livingston's example, undertake to harass
and run me down with prosecutions before Federal
judges, I see neither rest nor safety before me.
Wishing you the pleasure of a smooth session, I
salute you with all affection. .
TO JAMES MADISON.
MONTICELLO, DeCember 8, 1810.
DEAR SIR,-I found among my papers the
enclosed survey of Lafayette's lands adjacent to
New Orleans. Whether it be the legal survey or
Supplementary Manuscripts 177
not I do not 'know. If it is it gives a prospect
of something considerable after the six hundred
yards laid off round the ramparts. I enclose it
to you as it may possibly be of use. With me
it can be of none.
I enclose you also a piece in manuscript from
Dupont on the subject of our system of finance
when the progress of manufactures shall have
dried up the present source of our revenue. He
is, as you know, a rigorous economist, and although
the system be not new yet he always gives some-
thing new, and places his subject in strong lights.
The application of the system to our situation also
is new. On the whole it is well worth your reading,
however oppressed with reading. When done with
it I will thank you to hand it to Mr. Gallatin, with
a request to return it to me when he shall have
read it.
I have had a visit from Mr. Warden. A failure
in the stage detained him here ten days. I suppose
you had hardly as good an opportunity of becoming
acquainted with him. He is a perfectly good-
humored, inoffensive man, a man of science, and,
I observe, a great favorite of those in Paris, and
much more a man of business than Armstrong
had represented him. His memoirs and proceed-
ings in the cases of vessels seized show this. I
observed he had a great longing for his late office
in Paris. I explained to him distinctly the impos-
sibility of his succeeding in a competition before
vol. xix-12
178 Jefferson's Works
the Senate with such a man as Russell, a native,
and of high standing. That failing I endeavored
to find out what other views and prospects he
might have. I find that he is poor, and looks
ultimately to the practice of physic for an inde-
pendent livelihood; that he wishes to find some
means of living while he should be pursuing that
study. He spoke of a secretaryship in one of the
territories as desirable in that view and I believe
he would suit that office. However. any appoint-
ment [would do) which would give him present
subsistence. The consulships which rely on mer-
cantile business he does not much relish, having
no turn to shillings and pence. Having left Paris
very hastily he would be glad to go back as
the bearer of public despatches to settle his affairs
there, if there should be occasion for a messen-
ger. I collected these things from him indirectly,
believing you would wish to know his views. He
is an interesting man, perfectly modest and good,
and of a delicate mind, his principal seems to
have thrown him first on the hands of the Execu-
tive and then off of his own.
We have not yet received your message from
which we expect to learn our situation as well
with our neighbors as beyond the Atlantic. Wish-
ing you an easy and prosperous campaign for the
winter, I renew the assurances of my constant
affection and respect.
Supplementary Manuscripts 179
TO JAMES MONROE.
MONTICELLO, January 8, 1811.
DEAR SIR,-I received your friendly letter of
December 24th on my return from Bedford, at
which place I was at its date. It conveyed me
the first notice of the attempt to draw me into
the newspapers on the subject of the propositions
which had been passed between the agents of the
Rivanna company and myself for their accommoda-
tion in passing the navigation through my lands.
I immediately inquired into it, and found it was
John Nicholas, who, having been permitted by the
agents (called directors) to read the papers, had
written long animadversions which he wished to
get with the correspondence into the newspapers.
Although there is nothing in the correspondence
which I would wish to conceal yet I am now at
that time of life when quiet is the summum bonum,
and I do not see that the public could be either
amused or benefitted by having me dragged into
the papers and harrowed by malignant discus-
sions on every private bargain which, in the ordinary
course of things, we are all obliged to be engaged
in. I am very thankful, therefore, to Mr. Ritchie
for having rescued me from being disturbed by
this miserable scribbler.
I enclose you the correspondence with a request
that you will be so good as to peruse it. The
sum of what has passed is this: Your gentlemen
180 Jefferson's Works
directors, observing that my mill dam and canal
present a dead sheet of water from the entrance
of the river into the mountain, at the Secretary's
ford, to its exit at my mill, desire the use of my
dam to keep the back water at its present navigable
state. Use it. I shall maintain it for my own
purposes. But we wish to raise it two feet. Then
you must maintain the dam yourselves, because,
being raised to five feet, it will be carried away
ten times for once if it remains at three feet. Then
we will not raise it; but we wish the use of your
canal. You are welcome to it. But we wish to
widen it for batteaux. You are free to widen it,
but as admitting a greater volume of water will
certainly destroy the bank in some places you
must maintain the bank. Agreed, but we shall
want a site for our lock at the lower end. I give
it to you. Tmber, earth, stone to build it. I
give it to you, all common timber. Fine timber
trees must be paid for. Agreed, we want a site
and timber for our toll house. I give them to
you. But while we are widening the canal we
must stop your mills perhaps for a month. You
may do it and I will charge you nothing for the
rent of my manufacturing mills for a month, nor
the suspension of my [illegible) mill, the two
objects amounting to about two hundred dollars;
if, after this, your works, or the using your locks,
would stop my mills you must pay for the time.
We agree to it. And I thought the matter settled;
Supplementary Manuscripts 181
but I have heard that they are not satisfied nor
decided. Observe that this is not a general but
merely a local object. . It is only to carry the
navigation from Milton to Moon's ford, in other
words to Charlottesville, a question between the
two towns. The people up the river are left to
open their own navigation. Nor do I believe the
navigation will be used .when done, because a
wagon once at Charlottesville will go on to the
Shadwell mills for less than even the toll of a
barrel of flour, which is g d. besides the price of the
watermen.
I state all these things to you and have asked
you to peruse the correspondence, because it is
well you should possess the whole subject, as perhaps
it may go to the legislature. Indeed the directors
acknowledge that the former act had done wrong
in authorizing the toll to be taken at Milton instead
of the falls next above the Shadwell mills, from
whence there is at present a perfectly safe naviga-
tion. For Mr. Randolph and myself, at our own
expense (of about three hundred dollars) have
opened a sluice through the Milton falls which we
shall still further perfect. I am told there is a law,
passed some years back, declaring there shall be no
future grants of the beds of rivers or creeks and
annulling all the past. The former is within the
power of the legislature, the latter is not. They
can neither pass a law that my head shall be stricken
from my body without trial, nor my freehold taken
182 Jefferson's Works
from me without indemnification, and when not
necessary for a public use. In this case the public
can use the bed of the river without taking the
property of it from me. By the common law,
which was the law here till this act, the king
cannot grant away tidewaters, they are reserved
for the use of the nation. But all other waters
were ever grantable, here as well as in England.
And how is a line to be drawn between rivers and
creeks, and other brooks and branches? I think
the judges would determine the annulling former
grants as merely void. It is material in my case
only as showing, when the Shadwell mill was built
fifty years ago, no trespass was committed on the
bed of the river which was private property, and
that no wrong having been committed, it does
not subject the proprietor to any ex post facto
burden, as the building of a lock, etc. In the case
of Magruder, who did not own the bed of the river
and who got leave to build a dam after the public
had been forty years in the exercise of their right
of navigation along the river, Captain, Meriwether
and the other commissioners for improving the
navigation, gave him five hundred dollars to build
and maintain a lock. This was more, perhaps,
than he had a right to, and is mentioned only to
show the difference of measure meted to him and
to me, if it should be proposed to force me to build
and maintain a lock.
All this, however, is submitted to your con.
Supplementary Manuscripts 183
sideration. If the matter is carried to the legisla-
ture, do what you think is right and it will be
perfectly satisfactory to me. Ever yours affec-
tionately.
TO REVEREND JAMES MADISON.
MONTECELLO. DeCember 29, 1811.
DEAR SIR,-Your favor of Nov. 19th arrived
here just as I had set out for Bedford, from whence
I returned a few days ago and found your letter
here. I thank you for Mr. Lambert's calculations
on my observation of the late eclipse of the sun.
I have been for some time rubbing up my mathe-
matics from the rust contracted by fifty years'
pursuits of a different kind. And thanks to the
good foundation laid at college by my old master
and friend Small, I am doing it with a delight
and success beyond my expectation. I had observed
the eclipse of September 17th with a view to cal-
culate from it myself, the longitude of Monticello;
but other occupations had prevented it before my
journey. The elaborate pa.per of Mr. Lambert
shows me it would have been a more difficult under-
taking than I had foreseen, and that probably I
should have foundered in it. I have no telescope
equal to the observation of the eclipses of Jupiter's
satellites, but as soon as I can fit up a room to fix
my instruments in, I propose to amuse myself
with further essays of multiplied repetitions and
184 Jefferson's Works
less laborious calculations. I have a fine theodolite
and equatorial both by Ramsden, a Hadley's circle
of Bords, a fine meridian and horizon as you know.
Once ascertaining the dip' of my horizon, I 'can
use the circle as at sea, without an artificial horizon.
Do you think of ever giving us a second edition
of your map? If you do, I may be able to furnish
you with some latitudes. I have a pocket sextant
of miraculous accuracy, considering its microscopic
graduation. With this I have ascertained the
latitude of Poplar Forest, (say New London) by
multiplied observations, and lately that of Willis
mountains by observations of any own, repeated
by my grandson, whom I am carrying on in his
different studies. Any latitudes within the circuit
of these three places I could take for you myself, to
which my grandson, whose motions will be on a
larger scale, would be able to add others. My
unremitting occupations while you were engaged
in the first publication, put it out of my power
to furnish you with some local draughts which
might have aided you. To wit : Some very accurate
surveys of James rives from Cartersville about
ten miles upwards, some of the river in this neigh-
borhood, some county lines, the country between
New Loudon and Lynchburg, etc.
Accept my friendly salutations and assurances
of great and continued esteem and respect.
Supplementary Manuscripts 185
TO ANDREW ELLICOTT.
MONTICELLO, June 24, 1812.
DEAR SIR,-I have duly received your favor
of the 3d and thank you in advance for that of
a copy of your observations, when they will be
published. There always existed a doubt whether
the source of the Savannah was not north of the
35th degree, which your labors have now removed.
A great deal is yet wanting to ascertain the true
geography of our country; more indeed as to its
longitudes than latitudes. Towards this we have
done too little for ourselves and depended too
long on the ancient and inaccurate observations
of other nations. You are wiping off this reproach,
and will, I hope, be long continued in that work.
All this will be for a future race when the super-
lunary geography will have become the object of
my contemplations. Yet I do not wish it the less.
On the same principle on which I am still planting
trees, to yield their shade and ornament half a
century hence.
With my best wishes for the success of your
labors, accept the assurances of my great esteem
and respect.
186 Jefferson's Works
TO WILLIAM BARTON.
MONTICELLO, October 2, 1812.
Thomas Jefferson presents his compliments to
Mr. Barton and returns him the paper he was so
kind as to inclose him, and to which he has sub-
scribed with great pleasure. In this he has equally
gratified his affectionate reverence for the character
of Dr. Rittenhouse and his friendship and best
wishes toward his much-esteemed connections;
and he is satisfied that the life of such a man must
offer a model and useful lesson to mankind in
general. He salutes Mr. Barton with friendship
and respect.
TO ALRICHS AND DIXON.
MONTICELLO, January 14, 1813.
Your favor of Dec. z arrived here when I was
on a journey which occasioned me an absence of
between five and six weeks. I found it on my
return here, and learning at the same time that
the carding machine was on its way up the river
I waited till I could acknowledge the receipt of
both together. The machine arrived safely, and
has now been at work some days. The person
who directs my factory I found to be not so well
acquainted with it as I supposed. He could not
roake it produce a perfect roll until he made
some alteration (probably not for the better) which
Supplementary Manuscripts 187
adapted it to his own ideas. It produced at first
a roll partly flat; it now produces it perfect. The
force required to turn it is almost nothing, but
the velocity with which it must be turned is fatigu-
ing. I am putting a six-inch whirl in place of
the handle of the great cylinder, to be driven by
a two-foot wheel and band so that the hand will
make one revolution where it now makes four.
This I expect will be a less fatiguing composition
of force and velocity than the present. The addition
will be attached by two screws only, so that if
it does not answer, it will be taken off and leave
the machine exactly as it now is. I will immedi-
ately desire Messrs. Gibson and Jefferson of Rich-
mond to remit you the $97, amount of your bill.
Your favor of Jan. 1st is just now received, there
being near me a wool-carding machine going by
water renders the question as to hand-carding
machines for that article less important. Accept
my thanks for your attention to this little com-
mission of mine and the assurances of my esteem
and respect.
TO ROBERT FULTON.
MONTICELLO, MarCh S, 1813.
DEAR SIR,-It has been some time since I have
tried the experiments for which you were so kind
as to lend me your dynamometer and the recon-
veyance by sea and under the care of some passenger.
188 Jefferson's Works
This to New York never happens from our quarter,
to Philadelphia once or twice a year only, if I
knew with whom to lodge it there for .you. To
Washington I could more frequently send it. I
must, therefore, ask your instructions on this
subject.
A Mr. Abraham Howard Quincy, number 108
Chatham street, New York, informs me he has
made an improvement in fireplaces. such as that
with one-tenth of the fuel ordinarily laid on a
fire and that kept up but one hour in five, maintains
summer temperature in the room, and he has
requested me to ask some friend in whom I have
confidence to call on him and receive his demon-
strations of it. I have no acquaintance there
whose turn is mechanical, of whom I could ask
this; but it occurs to me that you may possibly
be there occasionally, and that your affection to
improvements in the arts might induce you to
take the trouble to examine this one, my con-
fidence in your judgment as to the reality of the
improvement would settle my opinion. ' I would
therefore ask you to give a leisure moment to this
examination.
I rejoice at your success in your steamboats
and have no doubt they will be the source of great
wealth to yourself and permanent blessing to
your country. I hope your torpedoes will equally
triumph over doubting friends and presumptuous
enemies. I sincerely condole with you on the
Supplementary Manuscripts 189
death of our much-to-be-lamented friend Barlow.
The slender thread by which Mrs. Barlow's life
hung will probably be broken by this calamity,
and I consider the loss as irreparable to our country,
when I look for the man capable of writing its
history. In this view I lamented his going to
Europe at all. Accept the assurance of my affec-
tionate esteem and respect.
TO ELBRIDGE GERRY.
MONTICELLO, June 19, 1813.
DEAR SIR,-Yours of the 11th instant is just
received, and I repeat the sincere pleasure it has
given me to see you once more come forward on
the stage of the nation.l I have never thought
the post you now occupy the most agreeable one
the nation can give, and very far preferable to
that which its highest favor confers. And I have
hoped that within three days' journey of one another,
it would afford some occasion of interview. Not
indeed at Washington, for I am too old and too
much engaged to propose such a journey of mere
indulgence to my moral feelings at the expense
of any physical ones, but the chance I look to was
that of some short and occasional adjournment
of Congress, during the interval of which, at a loss
how otherwise to fill it, you might think a tour
through some part of this State not merely super-
1 Gerry had been elected Vice-President of the United States.
190 Jefferson's Works
vacaneous. Were this to happen, I had hoped
that an acquaintance of half a century, and a
fellow laborer in good works might be an object
in the tour. In no part of it could you be received
with more pleasure or retained with greater cor-
diality. Let me then believe this possible, and
in the meantime assure you of the unceasing
sentiments of friendship and respect of yours most
affectionately and respectfully.
TO JAMES MADISON.
MONTICELLO, July 13, 1813.
DEAR SIR,-I was so unlucky as to write you
a long letter of business when, as I learned soon
afterwards, you were too ill to be troubled with
any matter of business. My comfort has been in
the confidence that care would of course be taken
not to disturb you with letters. My hope in writing
the present is of a pleasanter kind, the flattering
one that you are entirely recovered. ' If the prayers
of millions have been of avail, they have been poured
forth with the deepest anxiety. The enclosed
letter from Mr. Fulton will inform you why a
similar one did not go to you direct, and that this is
forwarded by express desire. Mr. Fulton's ingenuity
is inexhaustable and his disinterested devotion of
it to his country very laudable. If his present
device depended on me, I should try it on the
judgment of an officer so well skilled as Decatur.
Supplementary Manuscripts 191
It is one of those experiments which neither the
personal interest nor the faculties of a private
individual can ever bring into use, while it is highly
interesting to the nation. Intersected as we are
by many and deep waters, and unable to meet
the enemy on them with an equal force, our only
hope is in the discovery of the means which inge-
nuity may devise whereby the weak may defend
themselves against the strong. This is done at
land by fortifications, and not being against any
law of nature, we may hope that something equiva-
lent may be discovered for the water.
You know the present situation of our friend
Strode, entirely penniless. How he comes to be
left to subsist himself by his labors in subordinate
employments, while his son is at his ease, I am not
informed. Nor whether they have had any differ-
ences. Yet the fact is that he is in indigence, and
anxious to get his living by any services he can
render. You know his qualifications. The public
iron works, the armory, the army or some of the
sedentary offices at Washington may perhaps offer
some employment analogous to his talents. His
wish is to earn a livelihood and although in his
letter to me he does not propose to solicit anything,
yet the expressions of his situation show that
decent employment could not fail to be very
acceptable.
We are at the close of the poorest harvest
have ever seen. I shall not carry into my barn,
192 Jefferson's Works
more than one-third of an ordinary crop. But
one rain to wet the ground since April. A remark-
able drying wind with great heat the first days
of the harvest, dried up the skin of the wheat so
that it fell before the scythe instead of being cut.
I have seen harvests lost by wet, but never before
saw one lost by dry weather. I have suffered
more by the drought than my neighbors. Most
of them will make a half a crop, some two-thirds.
Much of the evil had been prepared by the winter
and the fly. It is not too late yet for the corn
to recover should there come rains shortly. It
never was seen so low before at this date. Our
gardens are totally burnt up and the river so low
that you can almost jump over it in some places.
Wishing you a speedy and perfect restoration
of your health, I pray you to accept the assurance
of my constant and affectionate esteem and respect.
TO ROBERT FULTON.
MONTICELLO, July 21, 1813,
DEAR SIR,-Immediately on the receipt of your
favor of July 8th I forwarded it to the President,
and had no hesitation in expressing my own wish
that it should be tried. In fact as we cannot
meet the British with an equality of physical force,
we must supply it by other devices, in which I
know nobody equal to yourself and so likely to
point out to us a mode of salvation.
Supplementary Manuscripts 193
Accordingly I hope this honor is reserved for
you, and that either by subaqueous guns, torpedoes,
or diving boats you will accomplish it by the aid
of government. The New York Evening Post has
given us a quiz on this subject, hoping, I presume,
to draw a flimsy veil of jest over his habitual lies,
and wishing us to suppose all those were but jests.
I confess I have more hopes of the mode of des-
truction by the submarine boat than any other.
No law of nature opposes it, and in that case nothing
is to be despaired of by human invention, nor
particularly by yours.
Accept the just tribute of an American citizen,
and of a friend in the assurances of my great esteem
and respect.
TO ABIGAIL ADAMS
(MRS. JOHN ADAMS).
MONTICELLO, August 22, 1813.
DEAR MADAM,-A kind note at the foot of Mr.
Adams' letter of July 15 reminds me of the duty
of saluting you with friendship and respect, a
duty long suspended by the unremitting labors
of public engagement and which ought to have
been sooner revived, since I am the proprietor of
my own time. And yet so it is, that in no course
of life have I been ever more closely pressed by
business than in the present. Much of this proceeds
from my own affairs, much from the. calls of others ;
VOL. XIX- 13
194 Jefferson's Works
leaving little time for indulgence in my greatest
of all amusements, reading. Dr. Franklin used
to say that when he was young and had time to
read he had not books; and now when he has
become old and had books, he had no time. Per-
haps it is that when habit has strengthened our
sense of duties, they leave us no time for other
things; but when young we neglect them and
this gives us time for anything.
However, I will now take time to ask you how
you do, how you have done? and to express the
interest I take in whatever affects your happiness.
I have been concerned to learn that at one time
you suffered much and long from rheumatism,
and I can sympathize with you the more feelingly
as I have had more of it myself latterly than at
any former period; and can form a truer idea
of what it is in its higher degrees. Excepting for
this I have enjoyed general health; for I do not
consider as a want of health the gradual decline
and increasing debility which is the natural diathesis
of age ; this last comes on me fast. I am not able to
walk much, though I still ride without fatigue and take
long and frequent journeys to a distant possession.
I have compared notes with Mr. Adams on the
score of progeny and find I am ahead of him and
think I am. in a fair way to keep so. I have ten
and one-half grandchildren, and two and three-
fourths great-grandchildren, and these fractions
will ere long become units.
Supplementary Manuscripts 195
I was glad to learn from Mr. Adams that you
have a grandson far enough advanced in age and
acquirements to be reading Greek. These young
scions give us comfortable cares, when we cease
to care about ourselves. Under all circumstances
of health or sickness, of blessing or affliction, I
tender you assurances of my sincere affection and
respect; and my prayers that the hand of time
and of providence may press lightly on you till
your own wishes shall withdraw you from all mortal
feeling.
TO DUPONT DE NEMOURS.
MONTICELLO, NOVEMBER 29, 1813.
MY VERY DEAR AND ESTIMABLE FRIEND,-In
answering the several very kind letters I have
received from you, I owe to yourself and to the
most able and estimable author of the Commentaries
on Montesquieu to begin by assuring you that I
am not the author of that work, and of my own
consciousness that it is far beyond my qualifications.
In truth I consider it as a most profound and logical
work which has been presented to the present
generation. On the subject of government par-
ticularly there is a purity which renders it precious
to our country particularly, where I trust it will be-
come the elementary work for the youth of our
academies and colleges. The paradoxes of Mon-
tesquieu have been too long uncorrected. I will
196 Jefferson's Works
not fail to send you a copy of the work if possible
to get it through the perils of the sea.
I am next to return you thanks for the copy of the
works of Turgot now completed by the receipt of
the last volume. In him we know not which
most to admire, the comprehensiveness of his
mind or the benevolence and purity of his heart.
In his Distribution of Riches and other general
works, and in the great principles developed in
his smaller work we admire the gigantic stature
of his mind, but when we see that mind thwarted,
harassed, maligned and forced to exert all its
powers in the details of provincial administration
we regret to see a Hercules laying his shoulder
to the wheel of an ox-cart. The sound principles
which he establishes in his particular as well as
general works, are a valuable legacy to ill-governed
man, and will spread from their provincial limits
to the great circle of mankind.
I am indebted to you also for your letter by
Mr. Correa, and the benefit it procured me of his
acquaintance. He was so kind as to pay me a
visit at Monticello, which enabled me to see for
myself that he was still beyond all the eulogies
with which yourself and other friends had pre-
conized him. Learned beyond any one I had
before met with, good, modest and of the simplest
manners, the idea of losing him again filled me
with regret, and how much did I lament that we
could not place him at the head of that great insti-
Supplementary Manuscripts 197
tution which I have so long nourished the hope
of seeing established in my country, and towards
which you had so kindly contributed your luminous
views. But, my friend, that institution is still in
embryo as you left it, and from the complexion
of our popular legislature and the narrow and
niggardly views of ignorance courting the suffrage
of ignorance to obtain a seat in it, I see little prospect
of such an establishment until the national govern-
ment shall be authorized to take it up and form
it on the comprehensive basis of all the useful
sciences.
The inauspicious commencement of our war has
damped at first the hopes of fulfilling your injunc-
tions to add the Floridas and Canada to our con-
federacy. The former indeed might have been
added but for our steady adherence to the sound
principles of national integrity which forbade us
t_o take what was a neighbor's merely because it
suited us and especially from a neighbor under
circumstances of peculiar affliction. But seeing
now that his afflictions do not prevent him from
making those provinces a focus of hostile and
savage combinations of the massacre of our women
and children by the tomahawk and scalping knife
of the Indian, these scruples must yield to the
necessities of self-defence. And I trust that the
ensuing session of Congress will authorize the
incorporation of it with ourselves. Their inhab-
itants universally wish it, and they are in truth
198 Jefferson's Works
the only legitimate proprietors' of the soil and
government.
Canada might have been ours in the preceding
year but for the treachery of our general, who
unfortunately commanded on its border. There
could have been no serious resistance to the progress
of the force he commanded in its march through
Upper Canada, but he sold and delivered his army,
fortified and furnished as it was, to an enemy one-
fourth his numbers. This was followed by a series
of losses flowing from the same source of unqualified
commanders ; carelessness, cowardice, foolhardiness
and sheer imbecility lost us four other successive
bodies of men, who, under faithful and capable
leaders, would have saved us from the affliction
and the English from the crime of the thousands
of men, women and children murdered and scalped
by the savages under her procurement and direction
of British officers, some on capitulation, some in
the field and some in their houses and beds. The
determined bravery of our men, whether regulars
or militia, evidenced in every circumstance when
the treachery or imbecility of their commanders
permitted, still kept up our confidence and sounder
and abler men now placed at their head have given
us possession of the whole of Upper Canada and
the lakes. At the moment I am writing I am in
hourly expectation of learning that General Wilkin-
son, who, about the 10th instant, was descend.ing
upon Montreal has taken possession of it, the
Supplementary Manuscripts 199
force of the enemy there being not such as to give
us much apprehension. Between that place and
Quebec there is nothing to stop us but the advance
of the season.
The achievements of our little navy have claimed
and obtained the admiration of all, in spite of the
endeavors of the English by lying misrepresenta-
tions of the force of their vessels on both sides to
conceal the truth, the loss indeed of one-half a
dozen frigates and sloops of war is no sensible
diminution of numbers to them, but the loss of
the general opinion that they were invincible at
sea, the lesson taught to the world that they can
be beaten by an equal force, has by its moral effect
lost them half their physical force. I consider
ourselves as now possessed of everything from
Florida point to the walls of Quebec. This last
place is not worth the blood it would cost. It
may be considered as impregnable to an enemy
not possessing the water. I hope, therefore, we
shall not attempt it, but leave it to be voluntarily
evacuated by its inhabitants, cut off from all sources
of subsistence by the loss of the upper country.
I will ask you no questions, my] friend, about €your
return to the United States at your time of life;
it is scarcely perhaps advisable. An exchange
of the society, the urbanity and the real comforts
to which you have been formed by the habits of
a long life would be a great and real sacrifice.
Whether, therefore; I shall ever see you again or not,
200 Jefferson's Works
let me live in your esteem as you ever will in mine,
most affectionately and devotedly.
P. S. Monticello, Dec. 14. We have been dis-
appointed in the result of the expedition against
Montreal. The second in command, who had been
detached ashore with a large portion of the army,
failing to join the main body according to orders
at the entrance of the Lake St. Francis, the enter-
prise was of necessity abandoned at that point,
and the inclemency of the winter being already
set in, the army was forced to go into winter quarters
near that place. Since the date of my letter I
have received yours of September 18 and a printed
copy of your plan of national education of which
I possessed the MS. If I can get this translated
and printed, it will contribute to advance the
public mind to undertake the institution; the per-
suading those of the benefit of science who possess
none is a slow operation.
TO THADDEUS KOSCIUSKO.
MONTICELLO, NOVEMBER 30, 1813.
MY DEAR FRIEND AND GENERAL,--I have to
acknowledge the receipt of yours of Dec. I, ' I z
and its duplicate of May 30, '13, and am pleased
that our arrangement with Mr. Morton proves
satisfactory. I believed it would be so, and that
a substantial and friendly house there might some-
Supplementary Manuscripts 201
times be a convenience, when, from the dangers
of the sea, difficulty of finding good bills, or other
casualties, Mr. Barnes ' remittances, might incur
unavoidable delay. He is at this time making
arrangements with Mr. Williams, the correspondent
of Mr. Morton, for the usual remittance, having
for some time past been unable to get a good bill.
You have heard without doubt of the inauspicious
commencement of our war by land. Our old
officers of high command were all withdrawn by
death or age. Scott closed the list of the dead a
few weeks ago, and happy for us would it have
been could we have followed your advice in appoint-
ing new generals; and could we have been directed
in our choice to those only who were good. But
this is a lottery in which are few prizes and our
first draught fell among the blanks. The first
called into action delivered his army and fort up
to a quarter of his own numbers of the English.
He might have taken possession of all Upper Canada
almost without resistance. This was followed by
cases of surprise, of cowardice, of foolhardiness
and of sheer imbecility, by which bodies of men
were successively lost as fast as they could be
raised ; and thus the first year of the war was
lost. General Wilkinson, who you knew in the
late war, has at length been called from the Southern
Department ; General Hampton also ; and they
are doing what their predecessors ought to have
done last year. We have taken all the posts and
202 Jefferson's Works
country on Lakes Erie and Ontario; and General
Wilkinson, on the 10th instant, was about entering
the Lake St. Francis in his descent to Montreal,
and would, in three or four days, reach Montreal,
where the British force is such as not to give uneasi-
ness for the result. I trust he is now in possession
of it, and there being neither a post nor a man
between that and Quebec, we may consider our-
selves as commanding the whole country to the
walls of that city. The season, however, will
probably oblige us to make Montreal our winter
quarters.
Kingston, at the east end of Lake Ontario, has
been left unmolested, because being of some strength
and well garrisoned, it would have required a siege
and the advance of the season would have dis-
appointed us as to all below; insulated as it is from
succors and subsistence it must capitulate at
our leisure. This, my friend, is the present state
of things by land; and as I know not yet how
or when this letter is to go, I may by a P. 5., be
able to add what shall have actually taken place
at Montreal. It is a duty, however, to add that in
every instance our men, militia as well as regulars;
have acted with an intrepidity which would have
honored veteran legions, and have proved that,
had their officers understood their duty as well
as those of our little navy, they would have shown
themselves equally superior to our enemy who
had dared to despise us.
Supplementary Manuscripts 203
On the ocean we have taught a lesson of value
to all mankind, that they can be beaten there
with equal force. We have corrected the idea
of their invincibility, which by its moral effect
annihilates half their physical force. I do not
believe the naval history of the world has furnished
a more splendid achievement of skill and bravery
than that of Perry on Lake Erie. They threaten
now to hang our prisoners reclaimed by them,
although naturalized with us, and if we retaliate,
to burn our cities. We shall certainly retaliate,
and if they burn New York, Norfolk, Charleston,
we must 'burn London, Portsmouth, Plymouth,
not with our ships but by our money; not with
our own hands, but by those of their own incen-
diaries. They have in their ..streets thousands of
famished wretches, who, for a loaf of bread to keep
off death one day longer and more eagerly for a
million of dollars, will spread to them the flames
which they shall kindle in New York. It is not
for those who live in glass houses to set the example
of throwing stones, what is atrocious as an example
becomes a duty to repress by retaliation.
If we have taken, as I expect, the residue of their
troops above Quebec, we have as many of their
troops taken by honorable fighting as they have
of ours purchased or surprised. I have less fear
now for our war than for the peace which is to
conclude it. Your idea that our line of future
demarcation should be from some point in Lake
204 Jefferson's Works
Champlain is a good one, because that would shut
up all their scalp markets, but that of their entire
removal from the continent is a better one. While
they hold a single spot in it it will be a station
from which they will send forth their Henrys upon
us to debauch traitors, nourish conspiracies, smuggle
in their manufactures and defeat our commercial
laws. Unfortunately our peace commissioners left
us while our affairs were still under the depression
of Hull's treason and its consequences, and they
would as soon learn their revival in the moon as
in St. Petersburg. The English newspapers will
still fill their ears, as those of all Europe, with lies
and induce them to offer terms of peace under
these erroneous impressions; and a peace which
does not leave us the Canadas will be but a truce.
As for the Floridas they are giving themselves
to us. I hope, therefore, no peace will be made
which does not yield us this indemnification for
the thousand of ships they took during peace, the
thousands of our citizens impressed, their machin-
ations for dissevering our Union, the insults they
have heaped upon us, the inhuman war they have
waged with the tomahawk and scalping knife of
the savage, the suffocation of our prisoners in
pestiferous jails and prison ships, and the other
atrocities against national and individual morality
which have degraded them from the rank of civilized
nations.
The longer the peace is delayed, the more firm
Supplementary Manuscripts 205
will became the establishment of our manufactures.
The growth and extent of these can be conceived
by none who does not see them. Of coarse and
middling fabrics we never again shall import.
The manufacture of the fine cottons is carried also
to great extent and perfection. A million of cotton
spindles nearly being, I think, now employed in
the United States. This single advancement in
economy, begun by our embargo law, continued
by that of non-importation, and confirmed by the
present total cessation of commercial intercourse,
was worth alone all the war will cost us.
I have thus, my dear friend, given you the present
state of things with us, which I had done with
the more minuteness because I know that no native
among us takes a livelier interest in them than
you do. The tree which you had so zealously
assisted in planting you cannot but delight in
seeing watered and flourishing. Happy for us
would it have been if a valor" fidelity and skill
like yours had directed those early efforts which
were so unfortunately confided to unworthy hands.
We should have been a twelve month ago where
we now are, and now where we shall be a twelve
month hence. However from one man we can
have but one life, and you gave us the most valu-
able and active part of yours, and we are now
enjoying and improving its effects. Every sound
American, every sincere votary of freedom, loves
and honors you, and it was its enemies only and
206 Jefferson's Works
the votaries of England who saw with cold indif-
ference and even secret displeasure your short-lived
return to us. They love none who do not love
kings, and kings of England above all others. God
bless you under every circumstance, whether still
reserved for the good of your native country or
destined to leave us in the fulness of time with
the consciousness of successful efforts for the
establishment of freedom in one country and of
all which man could have done for its success in
another. The lively sense I entertain of all you
have done and deserved from both countries, can
be extinguished only with the lamp of life, during
which I shall ever be, affectionately and devotedly,
yours.
P. S. Monticello, Dec. 14. We have been dis-
appointed in the result of the expedition against
Montreal, and again by the fault of a general who
refused with his large detachment ashore to meet
the main body, according to orders, at the entrance
of Lake St. Francis. The expedition was of necessity
suspended at that point and the army obliged by
the severity of the season to go into winter quarters.
TO JAMES MONROE
MONTICELLO, January 27, 1814,
DEAR SIR,-I now return you the letter of Mr.
Carter, which was enclosed in yours of November
Supplementary Manuscripts 207
30, which was six weeks on its passage to me. The
reference to myself which you are both so kind
as to propose, I must beg to decline. I could not
trust myself with such a decision. For, although
I should certainly endeavor to see nothing but
the facts of the case, yet even as to these my having
been the sole agent through the whole of this busi-
ness for one of the parties only, and the particular
interest which it was thus my duty to feel and
espouse, may but too possibly have left impres-
sions unperceived by myself which might prevent
my seeing the subject in the original and unbiased
view with which an umpire ought to enter into
it. I have, therefore, requested Mr. Carter to
attend at any time convenient to you and himself,
between this and the first of April, until which
time I shall be constantly at home. A letter from
him, however, of December 2d informed me that
you have agreed between you that if your claim
proves correct he is to pay you what he got for
the land without interest. This amounts to an
agreement that the line will stand as marked for
Mr. Short, and that whatever it shall take from
you shall be paid by him to you. This is certainly
perfectly just and it leaves Mr. Short and Mr.
Higgenbotham without further interest in the ques-
tion, and the meeting and proceedings before
proposed are in that case become unnecessary.
The question in this case remains between your-
self and Mr. Carter only to be settled at your leisure.
208 Jefferson's Works
If you will be so good as to signify this in a line to
me, I shall be able to satisfy Mr. Short, and to
remove Mr. Higgenbotham's scruples about the
payment of his bonds, the first of which is now at
ha,nd.
I enclose you a letter from Mr. John Clarke
suggesting a mode of keeping the army filled up.
Whether it be the best or not I am not to decide.
But as it appears to be one of the good ones, I enclose
it to you to be suggested where it may serve.
What effect will the disaster of Bonaparte have
on the negotiations of Gottenburg? Not a good
one I am afraid. The salvo of maritime rights
by the other party leaves room to claim what-
ever the successes of her allies may embolden, or
her own greediness stimulate her to grasp at.
These successes will enable her to make the ensuing
a warm campaign, a warm one for us. Orleans,
Pensacola and the Chesapeake, one or the other,
or all, are indicated by the number and construc-
tion of the boats they are preparing. Their late
proceedings, too, in the north seem to breathe the
spirit of a bellum ad internecionem. It would be
well if on some proper occasion the government
should either justify or disavow Maelure 's proceedings
at Newark. As it is possible our negotiations may
not obtain what we would wish on the subject
of maritime rights, would it not be well that they
would stipulate for the benefit of those which
should be established by the other belligerents at
Supplementary Manuscripts 209
the settlement of a general peace. Remember me
affectionately to the President. It is long since I
have had occasion of writing to him, and I consider
it a duty to suppress all idle calls on his attention.
Ever affectionately yours.
TO J. CORREA DE SERRA.
MONTICELLO, April 19, 1814.
DEAR SIR,-Mr. Randolph first, and latterly Mr.
Short, have flattered me with the hope that you
would pay us a visit with the returning season. I
should sooner have pressed this but that my vernal
visit to Bedford was approaching, and I wished
to- fix its precise epoch before I should write to
you. I will set out now within a few days and
be absent probably all the month of May, and shall
be very happy to see you here on my return, or
as soon after as may be. It will give me the greatest
pleasure, and our whole family joins in the invitation.
if, consulting your own convenience and comfort,
you would make us as long a stay there as should
permit. You know our course of life. To place
our friends at their ease we show them that we
are so ourselves, by pursuing the necessary vocations
of the day and enjoying their company at the
usual hours of society.
You will find the summer of Monticello much
cooler than that of Philadelphia, equally so with
that of the neighborhood of that place, and more
VOL. XIX-14
210 Jefferson's Works
healthy. The amusements it offers are such as
you know which, to you, would be principally
books and botany. Mr. Randolph's resignation of
his military commission will enable him to be an
associate in your botanical rambles. Come then,
my dear Sir, and be one of our family as long as
you can bear a separation from the science of the
world.
Since Bonaparte's discomfiture I wish much to
see you, to converse with you on the probable
effect that will have on the state of the world,
of its science, its liberty, its peace and prosperity,
and particularly on the situation of our literary
friends in Europe. Perceiving the order of nature
to be that individual happiness shall be inseparable
from the practice of virtue, I am willing to hope
it ma.v have ordained that the fall of the wicked
shall be the rise of the good.
I can readily fulfill M. Cuvier's request for the
skin and skeleton of the mink. I have procured
a fine skin and can at any time get the entire
subject. The difficulty will be to find a vessel
which would receive so large a subject and preserve
the spirits in which it would be immersed: But
this shall be an article of consultation when you
are with us. The cranium of the buffalo cannot
be procured but from the other side of the Mississippi ;
there I can obtain it. But it must go thence by
the way of New Orleans, which cannot well be till
peace.
Supplementary Manuscripts 211
I have done for Mr. Warden what you and him-
self wished as to his commission. Its effect with
the government I have not learned. I also suggested
to the government your observation on the differ-
ence of structure in vessels which the difference
of specific gravity between salt and fresh water
might render useful.
Accept my thanks for Fossonbroni's book, which,
though topographical, presents circumstances of
curiosity. I salute you with sincere affection and
respect.
TO PETER CARR.
MONTICELLO, September 7, 1814.
DEAR SIR,-On the subject of the academy or
college proposed to be established in our neighbor-
hood, I promised the trustees that I would prepare
for them a plan, adapted, in the first instance,
to our slender funds, but susceptible of being
enlarged, either by their own growth or by accession
from other quarters.
I have long entertained the hope that this, our
native State, would take up the subject of education,
and make an establishment, either with or without
incorporation into that of William and Mary, where
every branch of science, deemed useful at this
day, should be taught in its highest degree. With
this view, I have lost no occasion of making myself
acquainted with the organization of the best semi-
212 Jefferson's Works
naries in other countries, and with the opinions of
the most enlightened individuals, on the subject
of the sciences worthy of a place in such an insti-
tution. In order to prepare what I have promised
our trustees, I have lately revised these several
plans with attention; and I am struck with the
diversity of arrangement observable in them-no
two alike. Yet, I have no doubt that these several
arrangements have been the subject of mature
reflection, by wise and learned men, who, con-
templating local circumstances, have adapted them
to the conditions of the section of society for which
they have been framed. I am strengthened in
this conclusion by an examination of each separately,
and a conviction that no one of them, if adopted
without change, would be suited to the circum-
stances and pursuit of our country. The example
they set, then, is authority for us to select from
their different institutions the materials which are
good for us, and, with them, to erect a structure,
whose arrangement shall correspond with our own
social condition., and shall admit of enlargement
in proportion to the encouragement it may merit
and receive. As I may not be able to attend the
meetings of the trustees, I will make you the
depository of my ideas on the subject, which may
be corrected, as you proceed, by the better view
of others, and adapted; from time to time, to the
prospects which open upon us, and which cannot
be specifically seen and provided for.
Supplementary Manuscripts 213
In the first place, we must ascertain with pre-
cision the object of our institution, by taking a
survey of the general field of science, and marking
out the portion we mean to occupy at first, and
the ultimate extension of our views beyond that,
should we be enabled to render it, in the end, as
comprehensive as we would wish.
I. Elementary schools.
It is highly interesting to our country, and it
is the duty of its functionaries, to provide that
every citizen in it should receive an education
proportioned to the condition and pursuits of his
life. The mass of our citizens may be divided
into two classes-the laboring and the learned.
The laboring will need the first grade of education
to qualify them for their pursuits and duties; the
learned will need it as a foundation for further
acquirements. A plan was formerly proposed to
the legislature of this State for laying off every
county into hundreds or wards of five or six miles
square, within each of which should be a school
for the education of the children of the ward,.
wherein they should receive three years' instruc-
tion gratis, in reading, writing, arithmetic as far
as fractions" the roots and ratios, and geography.
The Legislature at one time tried an ineffectual
expedient for introducing this plan, which having
failed, it is hoped they will some day resume it
in a more promising form.
214 Jefferson's Works
a. General schools.
At the discharging of the pupils from. the ele-
mentary schools, the two classes separate-those
destined for labor will engage in the business of
agriculture, or enter into apprenticeships to such
handicraft art as may be their choice; their com-
panions, destined to the pursuits of science, will
proceed to the college, which will consist, 1st of
general schools ; ' and, 2d, of professional schools.
The general schools will constitute the second
grade of education.
The learned class may still be subdivided into
two sections : 1, Those who are destined for
learned professions, as means of livelihood; and,
2, The wealthy, who, possessing independent for-
tunes, may aspire to share in conducting the affairs
of the nation, or to live with usefulness and respect
in the private ranks of life. Both of these sections
will require instruction in all the higher branches
of science; the wealthy to qualify them for either
public of private life; the professional section
will need those branches, especially, which are the
basis of their future profession, and a general
knowledge of the others, as auxiliary to that, and
necessary to their standing and association with
the scientific class. All the branches, then, of
useful science, ought to be taught in the general
schools, to a competent degree, in the first instance.
These sciences may be arranged into three depart-
ments, not rigorously scientific, indeed, but suf-
Supplementary Manuscripts 215
ficently so for our purposes. These are, I.
Language; II. Mathematics; III. Philosophy.
I. Language. In the first department, I would
arrange a distinct science. 1, Languages and His-
tory, ancient and modern; 2, Grammar; 3, Belles
Lettres ; 4, Rhetoric and Oratory ; 5, A school for
the deaf, dumb and blind. History is here asso-
ciated with. languages, not as a kindred subject,
but on the principle of economy, because both
may be attained by the same course of reading,
if books are selected with that view.
II. Mathematics. In the department of Mathe-
matics, I should give place distinctly : 1, Mathe-
matics pure ; 2, Physic-Mathematics ; 3, Physic ;
4, Chemistry ; 5, Natural History, to wit : Miner-
alogy ; 6, Botany ; and 7, Zoology ; 8, Anatomy ;
g, the Theory of Medicine.
III. Philosophy. In the Philosophical depart-
ment, I should distinguish : 1, Ideology ; 2, Ethics ;
3, the Law of Nature and Nations ; q., Government ;
5, Political Economy.
But, some of these terms being used by different
writers, in different degrees of extension, I shall
define exactly what I mean to comprehend in each
of them.
I. ' 3. Within the term of Belles Lettres I
include poetry and composition generally, and
criticism.
II. 1. I consider pure mathematics as the
science of, 1, Numbers, and 2, Measure in the
216 Jefferson's Works
abstract; that of numbers comprehending Arith-
metic, Algebra and Fluxions; that of Measure
(under the general appellation of Geometry), com-
prehending Trigonometry, plane and spherical, conic
sections, and transcendental curves.
II. 2. Physico-Mathematics treat of physical
subjects by the aid of mathematical calculation.
These are Mechanics, Statics, Hydrostatics, Hydro-
dynamics, Navigation, Astronomy, Geography,
Optics, Pneumatics, Acoustics.
II. 3. Physics, or Natural Philosophy (not
entering the limits of Chemistry) treat of natural
substances, their properties, mutual relations and
action. They particularly examine the subjects of
motion, action, magnetism, electricity, galvanism,
light, meteorology, with an etc. not easily enum-
erated. These definitions and specifications render
immaterial the question whether I use the generic
terms in the exact degree of comprehension in which
others use them; to be understood is all that is
necessary to the present object.
3. Professional Schools.
At the close of this course the students separate;
the wealthy retiring, with a sufficient stock of
knowledge, to improve themselves to any degree
to which their views may lead them, and the pro-
fessional section to the professional schools, con-
stituting the third grade of education, and teaching
the particular sciences which the individuals of
this section mean to pursue, with more minuteness
Supplementary Manuscripts 217
and detail than was within the scope of the general
schools for the second grade of instruction. In
these professional schools each science is to be
taught in the highest degree it has yet attained.
They are to be the
1st Department, the fine arts, to wit: Civil
Architecture, Gardening, Painting, Sculpture, and
the Theory of Music; the
ad Department, Architecture, Military and Naval;
Projectiles, Rural Economy (comprehending Agri-
culture, Horticulture and Veterinary), Technical
Philosophy, the Practice of Medicine, Materia
Medica, Pharmacy and Surgery. In the
3d Department, Theology and Ecclesiastical
History; Law, Municipal and Foreign.
To these professional schools will come those
who separated at the close of their first elementary
course, to wit:
The lawyer to the law school.
The ecclesiastic to that of theology and eccle-
siastical history.
The physican to those of medicine, materia
medica, pharmacy and surgery.
The military man to that of military and naval
architecture and projectiles.
The agricultor to that of rural economy.
The gentleman, the architect, the pleasure gar-
dener, painter and musician to the school of fine
arts.
And to that of technical philosophy will come
218 Jefferson's Works
the mariner, carpenter, shipwright, pumpmaker,
clockmaker, machinist, optician, metallurgist,
founder, cutler, druggist, brewer, vintner, distiller,
dyer, painter, bleacher, soapmaker, tanner, powder-
maker, saltmaker, glassmaker, to learn as much
as shall be necessary to pursue their art under-
standingly, of the sciences of geometry, mechanics,
statics, hydrostatics, hydraulics, hydrodynamics,
navigation, astronomy, geography, optics, pneu-
matics, physics, chemistry, natural history, botany,
mineralogy and pharmacy.
The school of technical philosophy will differ
essentially in its functions from the other profes-
sional schools. The others are instituted to ramify
and dilate, the particular sciences taught in the
schools of the second grade on a general scale only.
The technical school is to abridge those which were
taught there too much in extenso for the limited
wants of the artificer or practical man. These
artificers must be grouped together, according to
the particular branch of science in which they
need elementary and practical instruction; and
a special lecture or lectures should be prepared
for each group. And these lectures should be
given in the evening, so as not to interrupt the
labors of the day. The 'school, particularly, should
be maintained wholly at the public expense, on
the same principles with that of the ward schools.
Through the whole of the collegiate course, at
the hours of recreation on certain days, all the
Supplementary Manuscripts 219
students should be taught the manual exercise;
military evolutions and manoeuvers should be
under a standing organization as a military corps,
and with proper officers to train and command
them,
A tabular statement of this distribution of the
sciences will place the system of instruction more
particularly in view:
1st or Elementary Grade in the Ward Schools.
Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, Geography.
2d, or General Grade.
1. Language and History, ancient and modern.
2. Mathematics, viz: Mathematics pure, Physico-
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Anatomy, Theory
of Medicine, Zoology, Botany and Mineralogy.
3. Philosophy, viz : Ideology, and Ethics, Law
of Nature and Nations, Government, Political
Economy.
3d, or Professional Grades.
Theology and Ecclesiastical History; Law, Mun-
icipal and Foreign ; Practice of Medicine ; Materia
Medica and Pharmacy ; Surgery ; Architecture,
Military and Naval, and Projectiles; Technical
Philosophy ; Rural Economy ; Fine Arts.
On this survey of the field of science, I recur
to the question, what portion of it we mark out
for the occupation of our institution? With the
first grade of education we shall have nothing to
do. The sciences of the second grade are our first
220 Jefferson's Works
object ; and, to adapt them to our slender beginnings,
we must separate them into groups, comprehending
many sciences each, and greatly more, zn the first
instance, than ought to be imposed on, or can
be competently conducted by a single professor
permanently. They must be subdivided from time
to time, as our means increase, until each professor
shall have no more under his care than he can
attend to with advantage to his pupils and ease
to himself. For the present, we may group the
sciences into professorships, as follows, subject,
however, to be changed, according to the qualifi-
cations of the persons we may be able to engage.
I. Professorship.
Languages and History, ancient and modern.
Belles-Lettres, Rhetoric and Oratory.
II. Professorship.
Mathematics pure, Physico-Mathematics.
Physics, Anatomy, Medicine, Theory.
III. Professorship.
Chemistry, Zoology, Botany, Mineralogy.
IV. Professorship.
Philosophy.
The organization of the branch of the institu-
tion which respects its government, police and
economy, depending on principles which have no
affinity with those of its institution, may be the
subject of separate and subsequent consideration.
Supplementary Manuscripts 221
With this tribute of duty to the board of trustees,
accept assurances of my great esteem and con-
sideration.
TO WILLIAM CARUTHERS.
MONTICELLO, December 3, 1814.
SIR,-Your letter of Nov. 22 come to hand
yesterday afternoon only, and I sincerely regret
it had not been a single day earlier.
A few day after you called on me on your way
to the North, Dr. Thornton came and proposed
to lease the Natural Bridge for the purpose of
establishing a shot manufactory. I told him at
once you had applied for it for the same purpose
a few days before and must have a preference.
He expressed much concern at the disappoint-
ment, being then on his way to the lead mines tc
contract for lead. I at length agreed if he could
find a secondary situation on the bank I would
lease it to him, but that you must have the Bridge
if you chose it on your return as you were not
entirely decided when you passed on. I then had
occasion for the first time to turn my mind to the
principles on which a rent should be fixed, and
we agreed that. he should pay one hundred and
eighty dollars a year for a site.
He went to the mines and contracted for the
whole lead which could be furnished there in one year
He called on me again the evening before last and
222 Jefferson's Works
still pressed for the Bridge. I considered that
when you went northwardly you were undecided,
that ' you were to let me know cn your return,
that you had been back some time and I had heard
nothing from you; Dr. Thornton informed me he
had spoken with a person in Richmond, who he
understood was to have had some concern with
you in the enterprise, who told him you had been
returned some time, had got no workmen and
that it seemed the speculation would not answer
and must be abandoned. He told me also it was
his purpose to propose to you a part of the concern,
if you chose it. Under these €circumstances I
really supposed the thing abandoned by you, and
that I ought not to lose a certain offer. I there-
fore executed a lease for five years to the Doctor
with which he had left me about six hours when
your letter came to hand.
This, Sir, is an exact statement of what has
passed on this occasion, and I sincerely regret that
I did not receive your letter a few hours only sooner,
as it was my desire and purpose to have given
you a preference to any other applicant what-
ever, and I shall be gratified if your taking part
in a joint concern should be more eligible to you
than one in rivalship, and especially after you had
been forestalled in the produce of the mines which,
of itself excluded every rival. I hope you will
find in these circumstances my excuse for acting
on the belief that you had abandoned your views
Supplementary Manuscripts 223
on this object, and that you will accept the assur-
ance of my great esteem and respect.
TO B. S. BARTON.
MONTICELLO, February 26, 1815.
DEAR SIR,-Congress having concluded to replace
by my library the one they lost by British van-
dalism, it is now become their property and of
course my duty to collect and put in place what-
ever stood in the catalogue by which they pur-
chased. This renders it necessary for me to request
the return of Persoon's Botanical work of which
you asked the use some time ago. I am in hopes
you have been able to make it answer the purposes
for which you wished its use. If well enveloped
in strong paper it will come safely by mail.
I congratulate you on the happy event of peace
and the great action of eclat at New Orleans by
which the war was closed. I hope the legislature
will take care of your city, now become of so much
importance by its manufactures. I have come to
a resolution myself as I hope every good citizen
will, never again to purchase any article of foreign
manufacture which can be had of American make
be the difference of price what it may. The
greatest obstacle I apprehend to our manufac-
tures is our slavish obsequiousness to British
fashions. The British stuffs in fashion will be
sent to us, and while our workmen are preparing
224 Jefferson's Works
to imitate them, the fashion will have vanished
and our belles and beaux be drawn off to some-
thing newer. This is .a great evil, but I fear an
irremediable one. It is the particular domain in
which the fools have usurped dominion over the
wise, and as they are in a majority they hold to
the fundamental law of the majority. Accept the
assurances of my constant esteem and respect.
TO J. CORREA DE SERRA.
MONTICELLO, January 1, 1816.
I learned, my dear Sir, with inexpressible concern
on my arrival at home, that my detention in Bedford
had lost me the pleasure of your visit here. Having
heard nothing from you since our parting on the
Natural Bridge, I had supposed your return longer
delayed than you had expected, and that even,
possibly, your course might be so shaped as to
take Poplar Forest in your way. I hungered for
your observations on the country you had passed
over, and should not probably have been mistaken
in your estimate of it. It was additionally unlucky
that when you were at Monticello my family did
not observe the letters for you lying on my table,
some of them had been received, a considerable
time before, but not knowing your exact trajectory,
or in what part of it they might light on you, I
was afraid to risk them in the attempt. I now
inclose them and add a letter I wrote you under
Supplementary Manuscripts 225
cover to Mr. Rhea, expecting it would get to Knox-
ville by mail before your arrival there as it probably
did. But Mr. Rhea being unfortunately absent on
a journey to the westward, you failed in the receipt
of it as in the benefit you might have derived from
his friendly attentions. He lately returned it to
me with expressions of his regret at having lost
the opportunity of being useful to you; and I
now enclose it only to show that the failure did
not proceed from want of attention in me. Not
knowing whether you may have arrived at Phila-
delphia when this gets there I put the whole under
cover to Mr. Vaughan.
The death of Dr. Barton revives my anxiety
to recover the MS. journals of Capt. Lewis for
the satisfaction of his family, and may at the same
time facilitate it. He had promised me sacredly
that he would see to its restoration; and as you
were so kind as to say you would attend to it on
your return to Philadelphia I now earnestly entreat
your aid for this object, knowing nothing of what
is doing, or intended to be done, as to the publication
of the papers respecting the natural history and
geography of the country, you will oblige me by
any information you can obtain on this subject.
The right to these papers is in the government
as may be seen by the instructions to Capt. . Lewis,
they were left in his hands that he might derive
to himself the pecuniary benefit of their publication,
on the presumption they would certainly be pub-
vol. xix-15
226 Jefferson's Works
lished, if that presumption is to fail the govern-
ment must reclaim them ; and it is to. put this
object into an effective course that I wish for
information what is. doing, or likely to be done.
I know I should have the concurrence of General
Clarke in this, were he within the timely reach
of consultation, and I shall not fail to advise with
him as soon as I can do it understandingly.
I am ashamed to ask whether your observations
or information as to the aisterns of Charlestown
can facilitate the perfecting of those I have con-
structed because by some accident which I cannot
ascertain, I lost the paper you were so kind as
to give me at Dowthwaites. You recollect our
situation there; I was shaving, changing my linen,
opening and doing up my baggage on the bed
when you put that paper into my hands. I
thought it certain that I put it into my pocket,
but when I got back to Poplar Forest I could not
find it. Whether it was Inst out of my pocket,
or laid and left on the bed I cannot say, but being
lost I am thrown again no your goodness to replace
it if you can.
What effect will the apparent restoration of
the Bourbons have on your movements? Will
it tempt your return? I do not see in this a resto-
ration of quiet; on the contrary I consider France
as in a more volcanic state than at any preceding
time, there must be an explosion and one of the
most destructive character. I look forward to
Supplementary Manuscripts 227
crimes more fierce and pitiless than those which
have already distinguished that bloody revolution.
These are not scenes, my dear friend, for you to
be thrown into. They have no analogies with the
tranquillity of your character. True, we cannot
offer you the scientific society of Paris, but who
can enjoy science, or who think of it in the midst
of insurrection, madness and massacre? Besides,
you possess all science within yourself; from others
you can get nothing new, and the pleasure of com-
municating it should be greatest where it is most
wanting. Stay then with us, become our instructor,
help us on in the paths of that science which is
wanting to our ripening character. You know
how much you are beloved and desired every-
where, welcome everywhere, but nowhere so
cordially as at Monticello. Come and make it
your home then, the place of rest and tranquillity,
from which, as your pre-des-tal, you can make
what excursions you please. You will find its
summers as moderate as those of Philadelphia,
and its winters more so. Had I arrived before
your departure I should have pressed your trial of it
for the present winter. A comfortable room in
a country of fuel, for retirement when you chose
it, and a sociable family full of affection and respect
for you, when tired of being alone, would have
made you forget the suspension of the season for
botanical rambling. Turn this subject in your
mind, my good friend, and let us have as much
228 Jefferson's Works
of the benefit of the result as shall be consistent
with your own happiness, and in all cases be assured
of my warm affection and respect.
TO THOMAS APPLETON.
MONTICELLO, January 14, 1816.
DEAR SIR,-Your letters of August 26 and Octo-
ber 25 have been both received. The condition
of my friend Mazzei, both of body and mind, is
really afflicting, of the former he had given me
some account himself, of the latter I was unapprised,
although his very advanced age, with such bodily
infirmities, might have given room to expect it.
It is unfortunate, too, that persons in that situation
are themselves the least and last sensible of it,
and injure their affairs and family by not knowing
when to give them up. Under the circumstances
you state, friendship to himself requires a co-ope-
ration with his family in keeping him and them
from injury. It is what he himself would have
approved in the sounder state of his mind. It is
unlucky that a little before the date, and two
months before the receipt of your first letter, I
had written to him assurances that he should
receive a third of his principal, with its interest,
in the ensuing spring, and the remaining two-thirds
at two annual installments after. Of course some
excuse must be found to him, when, according to the
request of his family, I remit the interest only in
Supplementary Manuscripts 229
the spring without the portion of the principal.
This may be found, perhaps, in the expediency
of his keeping something as a forlorn hope for
himself and his family in a country where all is
secure, until the affairs of Europe are more settled,
or in some motives of inconvenience to myself
which his friendship may admit. I will remit a
year's interest, therefore, in the spring through
your hands, and you will act on it for him and
his family, as you and they will find most practicable
and for the best. In this, and whatever else may
be best for his family, I beg you to assure them
they may rely on me, conscious that in serving
them I shall do for him what I would expect my
friends to do for me in a like situation.
I wish it were in my power to hold up to Mr.
Bartholini a prospect of employment and emolu-
ment here worthy of his talent. Our early and
prolific marriages, and the justice of our laws
dividing the property of the parents equally among
all the children, place the body of our people in
ease .and happiness in the mass but occasion rare
instances of great individual wealth. You know
how unusual these instances are and how few
even among them have a taste for the fine arts.
There is at this time an Italian artist of the name
of Andiriani--or Franzioni, I do not know which
-lately gone from this country to Florence, Rome,
etc., in quest of artists to assist him in repairing
the Capitol at Washington, burnt by the British.
230 Jefferson's Works
He is one of two who were procured by Mr. Mazzei
and forwarded over by yourself about eight or ten
years ago. His object there at present is to obtain
architects only, and I name him merely because,
having resided here so long, he could be able to
give to Mr. Bartolini information of the country
the best adapted to his views.
I note what you say of the bust of General Wash-
ington by Ciracchi and those of Columbus and
Vespucius, but I am done with dealing in marble.
An humble copy in plaster of Ciracchi's Wash-
ington would be my limit in that way. Perhaps
you can tell me what such an one would cost, I
may include it in some future remittance.
For the present I confine myself to the physical
want of some good Montepulciano; and your
friendship has theretofore supplied me with that
which was so good that I naturally address my
want to you. In your letter of May 1, '05, you
mention that what you then sent me was produced
on grounds formerly belonging to the order of
Jesuits and sold for the benefit of the government
in 1773, at the time that that institution was
abolished. I hope it has preserved its reputation
and the quality of its wines. I send this letter to
my friend John Vaughan of Philadelphia, and
inclose with it to him fifty dollars to be remitted
to you, and I pray you to send me its amount in
Montepulciano in black bottles, well corked and
cemented, and in strong boxes, addressed to the
Supplementary Manuscripts 231
collector of any port from Boston to the Chesa-
peake, to which the first opportunity occurs.
Norfolk and Richmond being always to be pre-
ferred if a conveyance equally early offers. But
the warm season will be so fast advancing when
you receive this that no time will be to be lost.
Perhaps I may trouble you annually to about the
same amount, this being a very favorite wine.
and habit having rendered the light and high
flowered wines a necessity of life with me. I
salute you with assurances of my constant esteem
and respect.
TO P. S. DUPONCEAU.
MONTICELLO, January 22, 1816.
DEAR SiR,-I have been for the last five months
absent from home, which must apologize for this
very tardy acknowledgment of your 'favor of
November 14. I learn with much satisfaction
the enlargement by the Philosophical Society of
the scope of their institution by the establishment
of a standing committee for history, the moral
sciences and genera! literature. I have always
thought that we were too much confined in practice
to the natural and mathematical departments.
This committee will become a depository for many
original MS., many loose sheets of no use by them-
selves and in the hands of the holders, but of great
value when brought into a general depot open to
232 Jefferson's Works.
the use of the future historian or literary inquirer.
I shall be very happy to contribute to the use-
fulness of your establishment by anything in my
possession or within the reach of my endeavors,
and I begin by inclosing you a geographical and
statistical account in MS. of the Creek or Muscogee
Indians and Country as it was in the years of '98
and '99. This was written by Colonel Hawkins
who has lived among them as agent now upwards
of twenty years. Besides a general interspersion
of observations on the state of society, manners and
opinion among them, there is in the latter part
an interesting account of their government and
ceremonies, civil and religious, the more valuable
as we have so little information of the civil regimen
of the Indian nations. I think it probable I may
find other things on my shelves, or among my
papers worth preserving with you, and will with
pleasure forward them from time to time as I lay
my hands on them.
Of the MS. journal of the Commissioners of 1728
on the North Carolina boundary, I cannot give you
positive information. It has always been under-
stood that the Westover family possessed such a
journal written by their ancestor, Dr. Byrd, who
was one of the Commissioners, was the father of
the late Colonel William Byrd, a member of our
council, who died soon after the beginning of our
revolution. Dr. Byrd was the founder of the
Westover library and of the princely estate which
Supplementary Manuscripts 233
was dissipated by his son, and has left behind
him the reputation of being a man of learning
and understanding. Within these two or three
years I was offered the reading of this MS. by
some one whom I cannot now recollect, but a con-
nection of the Westover family. I will make
enquiry into this and communicate to you the
result. Accept the assurance of my great respect
and esteem.
TO ALBERT GALLATIN.
MONTICELLO, April 11, 1816.
DEAR SIR,-Your last favor is received just as
I am setting out for a possession ninety miles
southwardly, from whence I shall not return until
the first week of the ensuing month. I hasten,
therefore, to drop you a line of adieu. I sincerely
rejoice that you are going to France. I do not
think with you that nothing can be done there.
Louis XVIII is a fool and a bigot, but bating a
little duplicity he is honest and means well. He
cannot but feel the heavy hand of his masters,
and that it is England which presses it and
vaunts the having had the glory of effecting their
humiliation. His ministers, too, although ultra-
royalists, must feel as Frenchmen, although our
government is an eyesore to them, the pride
and pressure of England is more present to their
feelings, and they must be sensible that having
234 Jefferson's Works
a common enemy, an intimate connection with us
must be of value to them. England hates us,
dreads us, and yet is silly enough to keep us under
constant irritation instead of making us her friends.
She will use all her sway over the French Govern-
ment to obstruct our commerce with them, and
it is exactly there you can act with effect by keeping
that government informed of the truth in oppo-
sition to the lies of England.
I thank you for your attention to my request
as to Mr. Terril. You judge rightly that I have
no acquaintances left in France. Some were guil-
lotined, some fled, some died, some are exiled
and I know of nobody but Lafayette. I correspond
with his connection M. Destutt Tracy, the ablest
writer in France in the moral line. Your acquaint-
ance with M. de Lafayette will of course bring
you to that of M. Tracy. Will you permit me
to tell you a long story and to vindicate me in
conversation to both those friends before whom
it is impossible, but that I must stand in need of it.
M. Tracy has written the best work on political
economy which has ever appeared, he has estab-
lished its principles more demonstratively than
has been done before, and in the compass of one-
third of even M. Say's work. He feared to print
it in France and sent it to me to have it translated
a.nd printed here. I immediately proposed it to
Daune who engaged to have it done. After putting
me off from six months to six months hp at length
Supplementary Manuscripts 235
(after two or three years delay) wrote me that
he had had it translated but was not able to print
it. I got from him the original and the translation
and proposed the publishing of it to Milligan of
Georgetown, promising to revise the translation
if he would undertake it. He agreed to it, and
when I came to look into the translation it had
been done by one who understood neither French
nor English, and I then rejoiced that Duane had
not published it; it would have been horrid. I
worked on it four or five hours a day for three
months comparing word by word with the original,
and, although I have made it a strictly faithful
translation, yet it is without style, le premier jet
was such as to render that impossible. I sent
the whole to Milligan about ten days ago and he
had informed me his type and everything was
ready to begin it. I have not the courage to write
to M. Tracy until I can send him a copy of the
book, and were I to write to M. Lafayette and
be silent on this subject they would conclude I
had abandoned it, but in truth I have never ceased
to urge it, indeed, I take great interest in its publi-
cation, its brevity will recommend it to our country-
men, and its logic set their minds to rights as to
principles and you know there in no science on
which they are so little informed. Now can you
remember all this, and will you be so good as to
place me erect again before my friends by a verbal
explanation?
236 Jefferson's Works
God bless you and give you a safe and pleasant
voyage and a safe return to us in the fullness of time.
I trouble you with two letters to Mr. Terril to
be forwarded to Geneva.
TO J. F. DUMOULIN.
MONTICELLO, May 7, 1816.
SIR,-Your favor of April Ia is just received,
and with it the two copies of your treatise on
Naturalization and Allegiance, the one of which
has been delivered as you requested to Colonel
Randolph and for the other be pleased to accept
my thanks. From a cursory view I promise my-
self great pleasure in reading it, as well from its
logic as its learning on these subjects. We cannot
but think alike, and I permit myself to doubt
whether there is a man in the world who thinks
otherwise; provided he has thought at all on the
subject, has turned inwardly on himself and ascer-
tained whether he has not there found the same
innate feeling of right to live on the outside of
an artificial geographical line as he has to live
within it; whether he finds there any stronger
sentiment of right to use his own faculties at all
than of that to use them in whatever place he
can do it to the greatest promotion of his own
happiness; whether he feels any obligation to die
by disease or famine in one country rather than
go to another where he can live?
Supplementary Manuscripts 237
The family accepts with thankfulness the kind
expression of your remembrance of them, and
joins me in assuring you that we consider our-
selves as the debtors for the visit you did us the
favor to make the last autumn, and in assurance
of great esteem and respect.
TO THE MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.
MONTICELLO, May 17, 1816.
I received, my dear friend, yesterday evening
only, your letter of January 21, and this day I write
to a bookseller in Philadelphia to send immediately
for you two copies of the Anonymous Review of
Montesquieu, under cover to Mr. Gallatin, if he
be not gone. In a letter to him lately I begged
of him to say to yourself and M. T. that I had
not the courage to write to either of you until I
could send a copy of the work on political economy,
which I have been so long endeavoring to get
printed.
I will state to you, however, the simple fact.
I proposed to the same editor at Philadelphia to
translate and print this, who had done the former
work; he undertook it. After time enough had
elapsed, as I thought, to have heard of its publication,
I wrote to ask when it would appear? At such
a time it was answered. It is needless to repeat
to you the subsequent reiterated application, excuses
and promises, they ended finally in a declaration
238 Jefferson's Works
that the work was translated but that he could
not print it. I then desired a return of the work;
it was sent to me with the translation. I then
engaged a person in Washington to print it, offering
if he would, to revise the translation myself. He
has undertaken it, but when I came to look into
the translation, I found it such as had never been
seen. It had been done by a person who under-
stood neither French nor English. I entered on
the corrections, and had got too far into it before
I became sensible it would have been shorter for
me to have translated it anew. I spent five hours
a day on it for between two and three months.
I was able at length to make it faithful to the text
but not elegant, le premier jet rendered that impos-
sible. It has been in the hands of the editor about
a month, but as he is to send me the proof sheets
for correction successively as they come out and
by mail, it will employ the summer and autumn
probably.
Nothing has been spared which depended on
me and had I resided where the publication was
undertaken I could, by daily attention, have soon
seen into the fact and cause of delay and have
remedied them. But at the distance of 300 miles
from Philadelphia, unable to get information but
such as the undertaker chose to give, and through
the public mail, I was quite at his mercy. Still
I shall think my trouble and vexation well requited
by possessing my countrymen of such a work.
Supplementary Manuscripts 239
Its principles are so profound, so logically demon-
strated and so briefly expressed that it must become
the elementary book of the world for the science
of political economy, as the other will be of that
of government. The very metaphysical character
of the prefatory pieces may deter some readers
not in the habit of abstract contemplation, while
it will be highly satisfactory to those which are.
The indications, however, are sufficient which show
the former where the part of the work begins which
will be interesting to them and levelled to com-
prehensions 'less exercised in speculations of this
character.
In this plain statement I hope yourself and
your friend will find an apology for the delays
which have taken place in sending you this work.
With respect to the Commentary on Montesquieu
there is a fact of some note. You are aware that
the Edinburgh Review is considered as the ablest
work of that kind which has ever been published.
Means were taken to place this work in the hands
of the editor but while the work itself and the
principles of his review permitted him to say nothing
against it, its being an American publication was
ground enough to avoid saying anything in its
favor. They have, therefore, not even mentioned
it in their monthly catalogue of new publications.
Such are the feelings of that country toward us.
Uncertain whether Mr. Gallatin is yet gone,
and of course whether this letter will reach him
240 Jefferson's Works
in time, or go by some other conveyance, it is
most prudent to say little in politics. That the
violations of all rights committed on the con-
tinent by France under the directions of Bonaparte,
as well as those on the ocean by England, merited
a proper measure of retaliation and punishment,
I imagine yourselves are sensible. On England
it is yet to come, and on France had it proceeded
but a reasonable length, justice would not have
condemned it, but it has passed that term. The
continuation of it becomes aggression, arid the
allies have gone on to commit equal violations
on independent nations with those of Bonaparte.
If there were another world to do it, the same
crusade ought now to be undertaken against them
which they enlisted against France. Still I believe
the loss of the battle of Waterloo was the salvation
of France. Had Bonaparte obtained the victory,
his talents, his egoism and destitution of all moral
principle would have rivetted a military despotism
on your necks. In your present situation you
will affect a constitution in which the will of the
nation shall have an organized control over the
actions of its government, and its citizens a regular
protection against its oppressions.
I dare add no more, but my prayers for
the events, and that your steady pursuits of this
object may be rewarded by the happiness of your
seeing it realized before you sing your nunc
dimittis.
Supplementary Manuscripts 241
TO FRANCIS EPPES.
MONTICELLO, May 21, 1816.
I send you, my dear Francis, a Greek grammar,
the best I know for the use of schools. It is the
one most generally used in the United States. I
expect you will begin it soon after your arrival
at the New London academy. You might, while
at home, amuse yourself with learning the letters
and spelling and reading the Greek words, so that
you may not be stopped by that when Mr. Mitchell
puts you into the grammar.
I think you will like him and old Mr. and Mrs.
Dehavens, from the character I have of them.
I am sure Mr. Mitchell will do everything for you
he can, and I have no fear that you will not do
full justice to his instruction. But while you
endeavor, by a good store of learning to prepare
yourself to become an useful and distinguished
member of your country, you must remember
that this can never be without uniting merit with
your learning. Honesty, disinterestedness and good
nature are indispensable to procure the esteem
and confidence of those with whom we live, and
on whose esteem our happiness depends. Never
suffer a thought to be harbored in your mind which
you would not avow openly. When tempted to
do anything in secret ask yourself if you would
do it in public. If you would not be sure it is wrong.
In little disputes with your companions, give way
VOL. XIX-I 6
242 Jefferson's Works
rather than insist on trifles. For their love and
the approbation of others will be worth more
to you than the trifle in dispute. Above all
things, and at all times, practice yourself in good
humor. Whenever you feel a warmth of temper
rising check it at once, and suppress it, recollecting
it will make you unhappy within yourself and
disliked by others. Nothing gives one person so
great advantage over another as to remain always
cool and unruffled under all circumstances. Think
of these things, practice them, and you will be
rewarded by the love and confidence of the world.
I have some expectation of being at Poplar
Forest the third week of June, when I hope I shall
see you going on cleverly and already beloved by
your tutor, curators and companions, as_ you are
by, yours affectionately.
TO JAMES BARBOUR.
MONTICELLO, January 19, 1817,
DEAR SIR,-Your favor of the 9th is received
by our last mail. I have been very long and
intimately acquainted with Colonel Trumbull, have
had the best opportunity of knowing him thor-
oughly and can therefore bear witness of my own
knowledge to his high degree of worth as a man.
For his merit as a painter I can quote higher author-
ities, and assure you that on the continent of
Europe, when I was there, he was considered as
Supplementary Manuscripts 243
superior to West. Baron Grimm, who was the
oracle of taste at Paris, in sculpture, painting and
the other fine arts generally, gave him the decided
preference, and came often to my house in Paris
while Colonel Trumbull was with me, to see his
paintings. I pretend not to be a connoisseur in
the art myself, but comparing him with others
of that day I thought him superior to any historical
painter of the time except David. It is in the
historical line only that I am acquainted with
his painting. In England, West was preferred by
the king to whom all others followed suit.
The subjects on which Colonel Trumbull has em-
ployed his pencil are honorable to us, and it would
be extremely desirable that they should be; retained
in this country as monuments of the taste as well
as of the great revolutionary scene of our country.
You know how averse I am to be quoted on any
occasion, yet as far as my testimony to Colonel
Trumbull's worth can be of any avail by using
it in private circles you are entirely free to do so
as a just tribute to truth and worth. Accept my
friendly and respectful salutations.
TO JAMES MONROE.
MONTICELLO, April 8, 1817.
DEAR SIR,--I shall not waste your time in idle con-
gratulations. You know my joy on the commitment
of the helm of our Government to your hands.
244 Jefferson's Works
I promised you when I should have received
and tried the wines I had ordered from France,
and Italy to give you a note of the kinds which
I should think worthy of your procurement; and
this. being the season for ordering them, so that
they may come in the mild temperature of autumn,
I now fulfil my promise.
They are the following:
Vin blanc liquoureux d'Hermitage de M. Fourdan
a Tanis. This costs about eighty-two and a half
cents a bottle put on shipboard.
Vin de Ledarion (In Languedoc) something of
the port character but higher flavored, more deli-
cate, less rough. I do not know its price, but
probably about twenty-five cents a bottle.
Vin de Roussillon. The best is that of Perpignan
or Rives alte of the crop of M. Durand. It costs
seventy-two cents a gallon, bears bringing in a
cask. If put into bottles there it costs eleven
cents a bottle more than if bottled here by an
inexplicable and pernicious arrangement of our tariff.
Vin de Nice. The crop called Bellet, of Mr.
Sasterno; is the best. This is the most elegant
every-day wine in the world and costs thirty-one
cents the bottle. Not much being made it is little
known at the general markets..
Mr. Cathalan of Marseilles is the best channel
for getting the first three of these wines and a good
one for the Nice, being in their neighborhood and
knowing well who makes the crops of best quality.
Supplementary Manuscripts 245
The Nice being a wine foreign to France occa-
sions some troublesome forms. If you could get
that direct from Sasterno himself at Nice, it would
be better. And, by the bye, he is very anxious
for the appointment of consul for the United
States at that place. I knew his father well, one
of the most respectable merchants and men of the
place. I hear a good character of the son, who
has succeeded to his business. He understands
English well, having passed some time in a counting
house in London for improvement. I believe we
have not many vessels going to that port annually
and yet as the appointment brings no expense to
the United States, and is sometimes salutary to
our merchants and seamen, I see no objection to
naming one there.
There is still another wine to be named to you,
which is the wine of Florence called Montepulciano,
with which Mr. Appleton can best furnish you.
There is a particular very best crop of it known
to him and which he has usually sent to me. This
costs twenty-five cents per bottle. He knows, too,
from experience how to have it so bottled and
packed as to ensure its bearing the passage which
in the ordinary way it does not. I have imported
it through him annually ten or twelve years and
do not think I have lost one bottle in one hundred:
I salute you with all my wishes for a prosperous
and splendid voyage over the ocean on which you
are embarked, and with sin.cere prayers for the
continuance of your life and health.
246 Jefferson's Works
TO JOSEPH DELAPLAINE.
MONTICELLO, April 12, 1817.
DEAR SIR,-My repugnance is so invincible to
be saying anything of my own history as if worthy
to occupy the public attention that I have suffered
your letter of March 17, but not received till March
z 8, to lie thus long without resolution enough to
take it up. I indulged myself at some length on
a former occasion because it was to repel a calumny
still sometimes repeated after the death. of its
numerous brethren, by which a party at one time
thought they could vote me down, deeming even
science itself as well as my affection for it a fit
object of ridicule and a disqualification for the
affairs of government. I still think that many
of the objects of our inquiry are too minute for
public notice. The number of names and ages of
my children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren,
etc., would produce fatigue and disgust to your
readers of which I would be an unwilling instru-
ment, it will certainly be enough to say that
from one daughter living and another deceased, I
have a numerous family of grandchildren and an
increasing one of great-grandchildren. ,
I was married on New Year 's day of 1772, and
Mrs. J. died in the autumn of 1782. I was educated
at William and Mary College, in Williamsburg.
I read Greek, Latin, French, Italian, Spanish and
English of course, with something of its radics,
Supplementary Manuscripts 247
the Anglo-Saxon. I became a member of the
legislature of Virginia in 1769 at the accession of
Lord Botetourt to our government. I could not
readily make a statement of the literary societies
of which I am a member, they are many and would
be long to enumerate and would savor too much
of vanity and pedantry. Would it not be better
to say merely that I am a member of many literary
societies in Europe and America.
Your statements of the corrections of the Decla-
ration of Independence by Dr. Franklin and Mr.
Adams are neither of them at all exact. I should
think it better to say generally that the rough
draft was communicated to those two gentlemen,
who each of them made two or three short and
verbal alterations only, but even this is laying
more stress on mere composition than it merits,
for that alone was mine. The sentiments were of
all America. I already possess a portrait of Mr.
Adams, done by our countryman Brown when
we were both in England, and have no occasion,
therefore, for the copy you propose to me. Accept
my apologies for not going more fully into the
minutiae of your letter. With my friendly and
respectful salutations.
248 Jefferson's Works
TO JEAN BAPTISTE SAY.
MONTICELLO, May 14., 1817.
DEAR SIR,-Your letter of June 15, 1814, came
to my hands on the 9th of December following,
and that of August 22d of the same year was received
on the 11th of May, ' 15. In the meantime I had
answered the former on the 2d of March and had
gone fully into all details in the line of information
to which your enquiries had led, stating every-
thing on the subject of prices, articles of culture,
climate, society, etc., which I thought would aid
your determination on the question of removal.
This letter was committed to the care of a Mr.
Ticknor, a young gentleman of Boston, who was
on the point of embarking for France; but before
actual embarkation peace taking place with England,
he went first to that country and thence to Got-
tingen where I expect he has continued to about
this time. How this letter was conveyed to you,
or whether you ever received it, I am uninformed,
but a fear that it might have miscarried has led
me to this recapitulation that in that case you
might know the truth and be assured I was incapable
of omitting to comply with your request of informa-
tion on points so interesting to you.
The only changes since occurring as to any par-
ticulars of that information has been in our cir-
culating medium, which, from the wretched state
it was then in has become much worse by the great
Supplementary Manuscripts 249
increase of bank paper in circulation and consequent
advance of normal prices; and that advance of
such uncertainty as that nothing can now be esti-
mated in that medium. I add this to the information
formerly given on the possibility that you may
still contemplate a removal, and can assure you
that your arrival here would be hailed with universal
welcome and by none with more than by myself.
I rejoice that the book, of which you were so
kind as to send me a copy, is becoming known
here, begins to be much read, and really see in that
circumstance chiefly a prospect, however distant,
that our rulers will come in time to understand
the subject and to apply the remedy which is in
their power only. A shorter work of Mr. Tracy's
on the same subject is in course of publication,
and will co-operate with yours to the same end.
For the conveyance of this letter I avail myself
of the kindness of its bearer, Mr. Lyman, a young
gentleman of Boston who proposes to visit France
for his health. He is not personally known to
me, but is much recommended on the part of Mr.
Adams, former President of the United States.
He speaks of him as a young man of great worth
and promise and whose ardor in pursuit of science
has produced that derangement of health which
occasions his visit to Europe. In proposing to
him to be the bearer of a letter to you he naturally
wished an introduction to a character of such an
advantageous standing in the literary world, and
250 Jefferson's Works
to place the honor of being made known to you
among the rewards of his voyage.
Be so good then as to receive him into your
notice, and to indulge a desire on his part produced
by motives of veneration for your character, and
accept the assurances of my great respect and
esteem.
TO JOSEPH C. CABELL.
MONTICELLO, October 24, 1817.
DEAR SIR,-YOURS of the 14th came to hand
two days ago. Soon after you left us, I received
the pamphlet you were so kind as to have directed
to me, containing several papers on the establish-
ment of a system of education.
A serious perusal of the bill for that purpose
convinced me that unless something less extrava-
gant could be devised the whole undertaking must
fail. The primary schools alone on that plan
would exhaust the whole funds, the colleges as
much more, and an university would never come
into question. However slow and painful the
operation of writing is become from a stiffening
wrist, and however deadly my aversion to the
writing-table, I determined to try whether I could
not contrive a plan more within the compass of
our funds. I send you the result brought into
a single bill lest by bringing it on by detachment
some of the parts might be lost.
Supplementary Manuscripts 251
You ask if we should not associate with it the
petty academies and colleges spread over the State
in order to engage their interest ? Why should we ?
For their funds ? They have none. Scarcely any of
them have funds to keep their buildings in repair.
They depend on what they get from their students.
Aggregated to our regular system they would make
it like the image of brass and clay substances
which never amalgamate. They would only em-
barrass and render our colleges impracticable. I
have always found it best never to permit a rational
plan to be marred by botching. You would lose
on the vote more honest friends than you would
reconcile dishonest enemies, under which term I
include those who would sacrifice the public good
to a local interest. However, take it and make
of it what you can if worth anything. Communicate
it also to Mr. Rives if you please. I meddle no
more with it. There is a time to retire from labor
and that time is come with me. It is a duty, as
well as the strongest of my desires, to relinquish
to younger hands the government of our bark
and resign myself as I do willingly to their care.
Our Central College gives me more employ-
ment than I am equal to. The dilatoriness of
the workmen gives me constant trouble. It has
already brought into doubt the completion this
year of the building begun, which obliges me to
be with them every other day. I follow it up
from a sense of the impression which will be made
252 Jefferson's Works
on the legislature by the prospect of its immediate
operation. The walls should be done by our next
court, but they will not, by a great deal. We
hope to see you then. En attendant, I salute you
with friendship and respect.
P. S. I drew a plan of a college in its dormitories,
such as the bill calls for, to demonstrate that it
will not cost more than the sum allotted.
TO THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY
(WILLIAM H. CRAWFORD).
MONTICELLO, January 5, 1818.
DEAR SIR,-The death of General Kosciusko,
which I see announced in the papers in a form
leaving no doubt of its truth, makes it' a duty
in me to trouble you with this letter.
He possessed; as you know, a considerable sum
of money in our funds. When he left the United
States in 1790 he authorized me, by a power of
attorney, to superintend the transaction of his
business here which has accordingly been done
through the agency of Mr. Barnes, under my direc-
tion and sanction. But he, at the same time,
left with me an autograph will making an elecmo-
sinary disposition of his property, of which will
he named me executor. Some doubts arise in my
mind as to the court in which this will must be
proved and myself qualified to execute it. As it
Supplementary Manuscripts 253
is essential that this should be in a court which
the government will think of complete cognizance
of the case, to authorize their placing the money
under the trust, I have taken the liberty of stating
the case to the Attorney-General, who is particu-
larly acquainted with our laws, by whose advice
and your sanction I wish to be governed. The
hope that this probate and qualification in our
state courts will be sufficient is nourished by me
merely in consideration of the difficulty with which
I could take a long journey.
Although General Kosciusko in his last letter
to me of September 15 uses expressions which
show that his purpose had not been changed, yet
I shall withhold proving the will until I shall hear
particulars from the friends in his confidence who
were probably about him at the time of his death,
and who will doubtless inform me of the event
and of any particulars which ought to be known.
I pray you to be assured of my highest esteem
and consideration.
TO GENERAL JOHN ARMSTRONG.
MONTICELLO, January 17, 1818.
DEAR SIR,-Your favor of the 4th was received
on the 12th. General Kosciusko on leaving the
United States in 1798 left in my hands an auto-
graph will disposing of his property in the United
States to a charitable purpose, of which will he
254 Jefferson's Works
made me executor. His residence under one
government, his property in another and his
executor in a third induced me to write to the
Secretary of the Treasury and the Attorney-General
of the United States to know where the probate
of the will should be to authorize their placing
the money in the public funds under its directions.
I expect their answer but am not decided to under-
take the trust; its execution will call for a great
many minute and continued attentions and many
more years to complete than I have to live. How-
ever, in whatever hands the administration may
be I presume the claim of your son will meet with
no difficulty or delay, the money being ready
whenever an authority shall be complete for receiving
and paying it, and of this as soon as determined
I will advise you, being happy in every occasion of
assuring you, of my continued affection and respect.
TO COUNT DUGNANI
(PAPAL NUNCIO)
MONTICELLO, February 14, 1818.
MY DEAR CARDINAL,-In March, 1818, I took
the liberty of addressing a letter to you by Dr.
Barton, a member of our Philosophical Society,
distinguished for his science, who visited Europe
for his health and expected to go as far as Rome.
I was happy in the opportunity he furnished me
of presenting myself to your recollection and of
Supplementary Manuscripts 255
renewing to you the assurances of the sentiments
of friendship and respect engraved on my mind
during our residence at Paris, and of their cordial
continuance. But I doubt whether Dr. Barton
reached Rome, as the aggravation of his malady
induced an early return which was followed
immediately by his death.
A few days ago I received a letter from M.
Marechal, Archbishop of Baltimore, in which he
informs me that besides your friendly expressions
toward me on his leaving Paris some years ago,
you had in a letter of September last made kind
enquiries after myself and my family. I feel a
pleasure as well as a duty in answering these myself.
Since my retirement in 1809 from all public duties
I have enjoyed uninterrupted good health and
retain as much activity of body and mind as,
at the age of 74, we have a right to expect. My
eldest daughter, who had the honor of being known
to you in Paris, lives also and in good health and
has blessed me with many grandchildren, and some
of these have commenced another generation.
My last information from yourself directly was
by the return .of two young Americans educated
at Rome who bore witness to your friendly patronage
of them, and brought me from you the two exquisite
engravings of Belisarius and Moncada, chef d'oeuvres
of that art, which, placed among the ornaments
of my house, renew to me daily the memory of
your friendship.
256 Jefferson's Works
During the terrible revolutions of Europe I felt
great anxiety for you, and have never yet learnt
with certainty how far they affected you. Your
letter to the Archbishop being from Rome and so
late as September makes me hope that all is well,
and thanks be to God the tiger who revelled so
long in the blood and spoils of Europe is at length,
like another Prometheus, chained to his rock,
where the vulture of remorse for his crimes will
be preying on his vitals and in like manner without
consuming them. Having been, like him, intrusted
with the happiness of my country, I feel the blessing
of resembling him in no other point. I have not
caused the death .of five or ten millions of human
beings, the devastation of other countries, the
depopulation of my own, the exhaustion of all
its resources, the destruction of its liberties, nor
its foreign subjugation. All this he has done to
render more illustrious the atrocities perpetrated
for illustrating himself and his family with plundered
diadems and sceptres. On the contrary, I have
the consolation to reflect that during the period
of my administration not a drop of the blood of
a single fellow citizen was shed by the sword of
war or of the law, and that after cherishing for
eight years their peace and prosperity I laid down
their trust of my own accord and in the midst
of their blessings and importunities to continue in
it. But, beginning to be sensible of the effect of
age, I feared that its infirmities might injure their
Supplementary Manuscripts 257
interests and believed the example would be salutary
against inveteration in office, and I now enjoy in
retirement the comfort of their good will and of
a conscience calm and without reproach. I have
thus, my dear Cardinal, given you the information
you have requested, and nothing but that request
could have justified so much egoism. In return
you cannot gratify me so much as by saying as
much to me of yourself in whose welfare I take
cordial interest.
Before closing my letter I will take the liberty
of requesting that if Mr. George Ticknor, a young
American, should be yet at Rome, as I think is
possible, you will do me the favor of extending
to him your countenance and protection while
there. His science, his talents, the worth and
correctness of his character, place him among the
ornaments and the hopes of our country; and
my particular friendship for him will add, I trust,
a motive the more for your notice of him. I
should have given him a letter to you but that
having been three years on his travels through
Europe I could not with certainty convey it to
him. He was to pass this present winter in Italy
chiefly and at Rome, and I fear indeed, he may
have left it before he can receive this proof of my
attention to him, or of your friendship to me.
In every event, however, accept, my dear Cardinal,
the assurance of my constant and affectionate
friendship and the homage of my high consideration.
VOL. XIX--17
258 Jefferson's Works
TO ALBERT GALLATIN.
MONTICELLO, February 15, 1818.
DEAR SIR,-I take the liberty of putting under
the protection of your cover a letter to Cardinal
Dugnani at Rome, in the hope that through the
Nuncio resident at Paris it may find a sure con-
veyance to him. In return for this trouble I wish
I could give you any news which would interest
you, but withdrawn entirely from all attention
to public affairs, I neither know nor enquire what
Congress are doing. You will probably know this
better than myself from the newspapers, which I
have ceased to read in a great degree. A single
measure in my own State has interested me much.
Our legislature some time ago appropriated a
fund of a million and a half dollars to a system
of general education. After two or three projects
proposed and put by I ventured to offer one which,
although not adopted, is printed and published
for general consideration to be taken up at the next
session. It provides an elementary school in every
neighborhood of fifty or sixty families, a college
for the languages, mensuration, navigation and
geography within a day 's ride of every man 's
house, and a central university of the sciences
for the whole State of eight, ten or twelve pro-
fessors. But it has to encounter ignorance; malice,
egoism, fanaticism, religious, political and local
perversities.
Supplementary Manuscripts 259
In one piece of general information which I am
sure will give you pleasure I can add mine to the
testimony of our other correspondents. Federalism
is substantially defunct. Opposition to the war,
the Hartford Convention, the peace of Ghent,
and the battle of Orleans, have revolted the body
of the people who called themselves federalists
against their leaders, and these have sunk into
insignificance or acquiescence under the govern-
ment. The most signal triumph is in Connecticut
where it was least and last expected. As some tub,
however, must always be thrown out to the whale,
and a religious one is fittest to recall the priesthood
within their proper limits, the questions of unity
and trinity are now set afloat in the Eastern States,
and are occupying there all the vehemence of the
genius irratabile ratum. This is food for the fools,
amusement to the wise and quiet to the patriot,
while the light of the age will prevent danger from
the flame it kindles. The contest, too, must issue in
triumph of common sense over the unintelligible
jargon of Gothic fanaticism. Ever and affection-
ately yours.
TO JACOB BIGELOW.
MONTICELLO, April 11, 1818
I thank you, Sir, for the comparative statement
of the climates of the several States as deduced
from observations on the flowering of trees in the
260 Jefferson's Works
same year. It presents a valuable view and one
which it is much to be desired could be extended
through a longer period of years and embrace a
greater number of those circumstances which
indicate climate.
I closed the year before last a seven years' course
of observations intended to characterize the climate
of this State, which though very various in its
various parts may be considered as reduced to a
mean at this place nearly central to the whole. In
return' for your favor I transcribe the heads of
observation which I thought requisite and some of
the general results with the assurance of my high
respect and esteem:
1. The greatest and least height of the thermometer every day.
2. The greatest, least and mean height of the thermometer in every
month, with the mean of each year and the mean of the seven years
which last was 55Ço.
3. The minimum and maximum of the whole term, to wit :. 5 Ço and
94.5
4. The number of freezing nights in a winter (50) and of freezing
days ( I o).
5. How long fires are necessary in our apartments, to wit : 4 months
constant, and on evening and morning of month before and after that
time.
6, The earliest frost in autumn Oct. 7-26, and the latest in spring
Mar. I 9-May 1.
7. The earliest ice in autumn Oct. 24-Nov. Ig, and latest in spring
Mar. 8-Apr. I o.
8. The quantity of water falling in a year, average 47.218
9. The number of rains in the year, 89.
10. The number of fair days average 5 to the week. €
11. The number of snow 22.5 inches average covers the ground
22 days.
12. The number of days each wind prevailed through the year,
Supplementary Manu scripts 261
13. The flowering of plants, ripening of their fruit and coming to
table of the products of the garden, arrival of birds, insects, etc.
sq. The temperature of the springs 54.5 degrees, the winter air being at 75
degrees.
15. The latitude of the place of observation (Monticello) 37 degrees 57'
51" -26".
Extract from Number 13:
The peach blossoms Mar. 9 - Apr. 4.
The tick appears Mar. 15- Apr. 2.
The house martin Mar. 18 - Apr. 9.
Asparagus come to table Mar. 23-Apr. 14.
The lilac blooms Apr. 1- Apr. 28.
The red bud blooms Apr. 2-19.
The whip-poor-will is heard Apr. 2-21.
The dogwood blossoms Apr. 3-22.
The locust blossoms Apr. 25-May 17.
Garden pea comes to table (unforced) May 3-25.
Strawberries ripe May 3-25.
Fireflies appear May 8.
Cherries ripe May 18-25.
Wheat harvest begins June 21-29.
Cucumbers at table (unforced) June 22-25.
Peaches ripe July 7-21.
Katydids or sawyers heard July 14-20.
³Average of ³every Mo. ³Prevailence of the
³ ³ ³several winds stated
³ ³ ³in days of
³therm. ³ Rain ³ year
ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÅÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÅÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÅÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ
Jan........ ³36 ³3.66 ³
Feb........ ³40 ³3.47 ³ N. 61
Mar........ ³46 ³2.92 ³ N. E. 29
April...... ³56.5 ³3.59 ³ E. 15
May........ ³61.5 ³5.60 ³ S. E. 16
June....... ³72 ³3.47 ³ S. 60
July....... ³75 ³6.56 ³ S. W. 66
Aug........ ³73 ³4.06 ³ W. 47
Sept....... ³67 ³5.96 ³ N. W. 71
Oct........ ³57 ³3.40 ³ ----
Nov........ ³45.5 ³2.92 ³ 365
Dec........ ³37 ³1.56 ³
262 Jefferson's Works
TO CHARLES JARED INGERSOLL.
MONTICELLO, July 20, 1818.
SIR,-On my return the day before yesterday
after a long absence from this place, I found here
your favor of July 4 with the two Chinese works
from Mr. Wilcox which accompanied it. I pray
you to accept my thanks for the trouble you have
taken in forwarding them, and if you are in cor-
respondence with Mr. Wilcox and should have
other occasion to write to him I must request you
to express to him my sense of his kind attention
in sending me these works.
They are real curiosities and give us a better
idea of the state of science in China than the relations
of travellers have effected. It is surely impossible
that they can make much progress with characters
so complicated, so voluminous and inadequate as
these are. It must take a life to learn the char-
acters only and then their expression of ideas
must be very imperfect. I imagine that some
fortuitous circumstance will some day call their
attention to the simple alphabets of Europe, which
with proper improvements may be made to express
the sounds of their language as well as of others,
and that then they may enter on the field of science.
I think missionaries to instruct them in our alpha-
bets would be more likely to take good effect and
lead them to the object of our religious missionaries
than an abrupt introduction of new doctrines for
Supplementary Manuscripts 263
which their minds are in no wise prepared. With
my thanks be pleased to accept the assurance
of my great esteem and respect.
TO JOSEPH MILLIGAN.
MONTICELLO, OCTOBER 25, 1818.
SIR,-I now return you, according to promise,
the translation of M. Destutt Tracy's Treatise on
Political Economy, which I have carefully revised
and corrected. The numerous corrections of sense
in the translation have necessarily destroyed
uniformity of style, so that all I may say on that
subject is that the sense of the author is every-
where now faithfully expressed. It would be
difficult to do justice, in any translation, to the
style of the original, in which no word is unnecessary,
no word can be changed for the better, and severity
of logic results in that brevity to which we wish
all science reduced. The merit of this work will,
1 hope, place it in the hands of every reader in our
country. By diffusing sound principles of Political
Economy, it will protect the public industry from
the parasite institutions now consuming it, and
lead us to that just and regular distribution of
the public burdens from which we have sometimes
strayed. It goes forth, therefore, with my hearty
prayers that while the Review of Montesquieu,
by the same author, is made with us the elementary
book of instruction in the principles of civil govern-
264 Jefferson's Works
ment, so the present work may be in the particular
branch of Political Economy.
TO NATHANIEL BOWDITCH.
MONTICELLO, October 26, 1818.
DEAR SIR,-I have for some time owed you a
letter of thanks for your learned pamphlet on
Dr. Stewart 's formula for obtaining the sun 's
distance from the motion of the moon's apsides,
a work, however, much above my mathematical
stature. This delay has proceeded from a desire
to address you on an interest much nearer home,
and on the subject of which .I must make a long
story.
On a private subscription of about fifty or sixty
thousand dollars we began the establishment of
what we called the Central College, about a mile
from the village of Charlottesville and four miles
from this place, and have made some progress
in the buildings. The legislature at their last
session took up the subject and passed an act
establishing an University, endowing it for the
present with an annuity of fifteen thousand dollars
and directing commissioners to meet to recommend
a site, a plan of buildings, the professorships
necessary for teaching all the branches of science
at this day deemed useful, etc.
The commissioners by a vote of sixteen for
the Central College, two for a second place and
Supplementary Manuscripts 265
three for a third adopted that for the site of the
University. They approved by an unanimous vote
the plan of building begun at that place, and agreed
on such a distribution of the sciences as it was
thought might bring them all within the com-
petence of ten professors; and no doubt is enter-
tained of a confirmation by the legislature at their
meeting in December. The plan of building is
not to erect one single magnificent building to
contain everybody, and everything, but to make
of it an, academical village, in which every pro-
fessor should have his separate house, containing
his lecturing room with two, three or four rooms
for his own accommodation according as he may
have a family or no family; with kitchen, garden,
etc., distinct dormitories for the students, not
more than two in a room and separate boarding-
houses for dieting them by private housekeepers.
We concluded to employ no professor who is not
of the first order of the science he professes, that
when we can find such in our own country we
shall prefer them and when we cannot we will
procure them wherever else to be found.
The standing salary proposed is of one thousand
to fifteen hundred dollars with twenty-five dollars
tuition fee from each student attending any pro-
fessor, with house, garden, etc., free of rent. We
believe that our own State will furnish five
hundred students, and having good information
that it will be the resort of all the Western and
266 Jefferson's Works
Southern States, we count on as many more
from them, when in full operation. But as the
schools will take time to fill, we propose that until
the tuition fees with the salary shall amount to
two thousand dollars we will make up that deficiency
so as to ensure two thousand dollars from the
outset.
The soil in this part of the country is as fertile
as any upland soil in any of the maritime States,
inhabited fully by a substantial yeomanry of
farmers (tobacco long since given up) and being
at the first ridge of mountains there is not a healthier
or more genial climate in the world. Our maximum
of heat and that only of one or two days in summer
is about 96, the minimum in winter is 5.5, but the
mean of the months of June, July, August is 72,
75, 73, and of December, January, February is 45,
36, 40. The thermometer is below 55 (the fire
point) four months in the year and about a month
before and after that we require fire in the mornings
and evenings. Our average of snow is 22 inches,
covering the ground as many days in the winter.
The necessaries of life are extremely cheap, but dry-
goods and groceries excessively dear, which renders
it prudent to draw them directly from Philadelphia,
New York or Boston, as they come to our doors
by water. Our religions are Presbyterian, Metho-
dist, Baptist and a few Anglicans, a preacher of
some of these sects officiating in Charlottesville
every Sabbath. Our society is neither scientific
267 Supplementary Manuscripts
nor splendid, but independent, hospitable, correct
and neighborly. But the professors of the Uni-
versity of themselves compose a scientific society.
They will be removable only by a vote of two-
thirds of the Visitors; and when you are told that
the Visitors are Mr. Madison, President Monroe
and myself, all known to you by character; Senator
Cabell, General Locke, Mr. Watson, gentlemen of
distinguished worth and information, you will be
sensible that the tenure is in fact for life.
Now, Sir, for the object of all this detail. I
have stated that when men of the first order of
science in their own line can be found in our own
country we shall give chem a willing preference.
We are satisfied that we can get from no country
a professor of higher qualifications than yourself
for our mathematical department and we entertain
the hope and with great anxiety that you will
accept of it. The house for that professorship
will be ready at midsummer next or soon after,
when we should wish that school to be opened.
I know the prejudices of every State against the
climates of all those States south of itself, but I
know also that the candid traveller advancing
southwardly, to a certain degree at least, sees
that the real advantages of climate are in the
middle and temperate States, and especially when
above their tide-waters..
I must add that all this is written on the hypo-
thesis that the legislature will confirm the report
268 Jefferson's Works
of the commissioners. But that is undoubted,
and therefore I make this early application to
pray you to take this proposition into consideration
and as soon as you can settle your mind on it,
to favor me with a line on the subject, shortening
my anxiety for its reception only according to
your convenience. In the meantime accept the
assurance of my great esteem and respect.
TO THE MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.
MONTICELLO, NOVember 23, 1818.
The hand of age, my dear friend, has been pressing
heavily on me for the few last years and has rendered
me unequal to the punctualities of correspondence.
My health; too, is lately very much broken down
by an illness of three months from which I am
but .now on the recovery. If, therefore; I am
slack in acknowledging the receipt of your much
valued letters, goodness will ascribe it to its true
causes, declining age and health.
I learn with great pleasure that your country will
have in the end a good degree of freedom by a
proper attemporament of limited monarchy with
representative ingredients; indeed that you have
already such a government, for as far as I under-
stand your present constitution, it has more of
popular independence and integrity in it than the
boasted one of England, and what it still wants,
time and the advance of light, will bring probably
Supplementary Manuscripts 269
as fast as the people can be prepared for it. This I
hope will be waited for without risking new convul-
sions.
Here all is well. Our government is now so
firmly put on its republican tack that it will not
be easily monarchised by forms. You have made
a mighty noise in Europe about our taking posses-
sion of some posts in Florida. The President's
message delivered a few days ago will set you
right on that subject, and show 'that no wrong
was contemplated for a single moment. And what
shows an honorable and comfortable trait in our
nation was the universal uproar of our own people
in the first moment of the apparent aggression
and until they saw thai, their government had
no such thing in view. I was delighted with this
proof of moral principle in our citizens as to the
conduct of their foreign relations and considered it
as a pledge that they would never as a nation
approve of any measure swerving from justice
Mr. Poirey has plausible ground for supposing
I have been inattentive to the claim for compen-
sation for his services during the Revolution, which
he committed to my care, but I am without blame
on this score. Just as I received his papers the
then Secretary of War retired from office. I
knew it would be worse than useless during the
vacancy to commit to a chef de bureau a business
which he would not have weight nor confidence
enough to act in with effect. The vacancy con-
270 Jefferson's Works
tinued unfilled nearly a twelvemonth. As soon
as a Secretary was appointed I placed the case
and papers under his consideration. The enclosed
letter from him will show its present state and
prospects, and I now write to him to secure his
early attention to it during the present session;
being now entirely unequal to the labors of the
writing-table I must request Mr. Poirey to consider
my, intermediate silence as saying that nothing
is yet done, on the assurance that the moment
that anything definite takes place I will give him
notice of it. I am rendered very happy by being-
able at length to send M. Tracy a copy of the
translation of his book on political economy, the
publication of which is at length accomplished.
The delay has been scandalous and to me most
vexatious. But I am fully repaid by the good
the publication will render to our country. God
bless you and preserve you and yours in health and
happiness as long as you shall desire it yourselves.
TO HENRY DEARBORN.
MONTICELLO, July 5, 1819.
DEAR SIR,-I received yesterday your favor of
June 24, and am very sensible of the interest you
so kindly take in my health. The eruptive com-
plaint which came upon me in August last was
unquestionably produced by the bath of the warm
springs which I tried on account of rheumatism.
Supplementary Manuscripts 271
The cause of the eruption was mistaken and it
was treated with severe unctions of mercury and
sulphur. These reduced me to death's door and
on ceasing to use them I recovered immediately
and consider my health as now perfectly re-estab-
lished except some small effect on the bowels
produced by these remedies and nearly not entirely
worn off. I am still thankful for your receipt,
and should the eruption return I shall certainly
try its effect in preference to those before tried.
With respect to Mr. Stuart, it was in May, 1800,
I got him to draw my picture and immediately
after the last sitting I paid him his price, one
hundred dollars. He was yet to put the last hand
on it, so it was left with him. When he came to
Washington in 1805 he told me he was not satisfied
with it, and therefore begged me to sit again, and
he drew another which he was to deliver me instead
of the first, but begged permission to keep it until
he could get an engraving from it. I soon after
got him to sketch me in the medallion form, which he
did on paper with crayons. Although a slight thing
I gave him another hundred dollars, probably the
treble of what he would have asked. This I have;
it is a very fine thing, although very perishable.
I cannot say I am anxious about the Spanish
treaty; in giving up the province of Texas, we gave
up a sugar country sufficient for the supply of
the United States. I would rather keep that and
trust to the inevitable falling of Florida into our
272 Jefferson's Works
mouths. It is true, however, that present peace
is secured by the exchange; and on the general
separation of the Spanish colonies which is to
take place, Cuba will join us and give us sugar.
The crush of our gambling adventurers who call
themselves merchants, but who never owning a
dollar were playing doubles or quit with money
of others, will be a good in the end by restoring
commerce to its true measure; that is to say, just
so much as will take off our surplus produce and
exchange it for what we want. It is better for
us to let other nations carry on their commerce
and meet the wars it always produces. What
is unfortunate in the present crisis is the danger
of its shattering the merchant of real capital, and
the country people, many of whom will be heavily
affected; some legislative provision to save them.
and let the crisis wear off by degrees may be salutary.
I am not afraid of a war with England; the eyes
of that government are opened as to us, and the
inveteracy of their people is softening. It is our
interest to meet them in friendship if they will
treat us with justice and respect. If we can avoid
war with that nation we need never have it with
any other, for the separation of Spain from her
colonies removes all ground of war with her. Our
family joins in testimonies of attachment and
kind remembrances to Mrs. Dearborn and your-
self, and mine is what it ever was and will be, most
affectionate and sincere.
Supplementary Manuscripts 273
TO ELIJAH GRIFFITH.
MONTICELLO, May 15, 1820.
DEAR SIR,-I received in due time your favor
of April 7 and it renewed pleasing recollections
of our former acquaintance, and of my sense of
your worth which the lapse of twenty years has
not obliterated. For some time after my retire-
ment from public affairs I yielded to the requests
of others to solicit for them appointments under
the general government; these, however, became
so numerous and burdensome as to keep me con-
tinually in the humble and painful attitude of a
supplicant at the feet of the government. Against
this humiliation I was obliged to revolt and to
come to a resolution to decline further interpositions,
from the observance of which I have found ease,
comfort and independence. But from a wish to
be useful to you I reserved your letter and kept
on the watch to see if the bankrupt law should
pass, with a view to serve you through an indirect
channel; but the bill having failed, the occasion
has not occurred of rendering you the service
requested.
The distresses you describe in your section of
the Union have been bitterly felt here. They
are not greater than I had always expected and
freely expressed in the creation of the first bank
by the new government. Mr. Madison and myself
left nothing untried to obtain General Washington's
vol. xix--18
274 Jefferson's Works
negative to the law, but after a long struggle in
his mind Hamilton prevailed in the last hour and
let in this torrent of swindling institutions which
have spread ruin and wretchedness over the face
of our country. And what is the most disheartening
it has still left such a hankering after these allusive
establishments that no hope remains of their pro-
scription in future. Their fatal effect has been
greatly aggravated in this State by an unexampled
drought which, having prevailed from June last to
this time, destroyed the bread of that year and
threatens that of the present. I greet with good-
will my declining health which promises to relieve
me from witnessing the resuscitation of this evil
and still more threatening political calamities, and
I salute you with constant esteem and respect.
TO JAMES MONROE.
MONTICELLO, August 13, 1821.
DEAR SIR,-You have seen announced 111 several
of our papers an intention of the Polonese nation
to erect a monument near Cracowto the memory
of General Kosciusko, and their wish that England
and the United States, by joining in contributions,
might give a proof of the interest they take in
his character; that for this purpose they had
addressed a letter to Lord Holland in England
and to myself in the United States.
I received in fact such a letter some weeks ago
Supplementary Manuscripts 275
from the President of the Senate of Cracow, with
an indication that it should be communicated to
you also. Much at a loss to devise in what way
I could get about the execution of this proposition
I have held the subject for some time under con-
sideration. Retired as I am among the mountains
of our interior country I see nobody but the farmers
of my neighborhood, who would consider contri-
butions to public monuments in other countries
as very foreign to the conditions of their lives.
I have been so long withdrawn, too, from inter-
course with the world that I no longer know who
of Kosciusko's fellow-soldiers are now living, as
from them we might expect the most zealous
co-operation in rendering this last testimony of
respect to him; and above all other considerations
the heavy hand of age paralyzing the faculties
both of body and mind have rendered me quite
unequal to the correspondence it might require,
and unfit to become the centre of such an operation.
Independent of the express intimation to communi-
cate the paper to you, I should of myself have
turned my views first to you as the friend of his
fame, and aid of my age; and because should
any communications with Lord Holland be expe-
dient, your acquaintance with him would open
the door to them.
Notwithstanding, therefore, the burdens of business
which your office imposes on you, I have hoped
that in your position you could put the thing into
276 Jefferson's Works
an organized course with little trouble. You know
who remain of his former companions in arms
and where to be found. You could probably think
of some person in each State and great city who
would undertake with zeal the necessary solicitations
and you could command attentions which would not
be yielded to me. The trouble of drawing a circular
which the scribes by whom you are surrounded
would multiply, would, I hope, be the principal
labor imposed on you, for I presume the contri-
butions should be deposited in convenient banks
from whence they could be easily brought together
for remittance, or (which is very possible under
present distresses) should their amount fall short
of what might be deemed worthy of acceptance,
they could be readily restored to the contributors,
and an apology to the Senate of Cracow be given
on reasonable ground. I suggest this course by
way of example only, for you may probably devise
some, other more practicable and promising.
I enclose you the papers sent to me, and knowing
the labors of reading to which you are subjected
I would point out to you the letter of the President
and the Proclamation of the Senate No. 1, as the
material papers for explaining to you their wishes
and expectations.
I hope you will excuse this trespass. of age leaning
on younger shoulders to relieve itself from a burden
to which it is unequal. From such a one I never
shrunk while I had force to encounter it. In all
Supplementary Manuscripts 277
events be assured of my constant and affectionate
friendship and respect.
TO LEVETT HARRIS.
MONTICELLO, December 12, 1821.
DEAR SIR,-I have to return you thanks for
Mr. Adelung's view of the languages of the earth
and to pray you to make them acceptable to him
also for this mark of his attention. It is a work
of vast learning and unparalleled application. It
seems to present a summary of the great vocabulary
of which I had a copy through your agency and
kindness. '
I am sorry we lost the pleasure of your visit
at the time you had first proposed. But we find
comfort in the French adage " tout ce qui est differe
n'est pas perdu." No visit will be welcomer when
convenient to yourself to make it.
I am afraid our quondam favorite Alexander
has swerved from the true faith. His becoming
an accomplice of the soi-disant Holy Alliance, the
anti-national principles he has separately avowed,
and his becoming the very leader of a combination
to chain mankind down eternally to oppressions
of the most barbarous ages, are clouds on his char-
acter not easily to be cleared away. But these
are problems for younger heads than mine: You
will see their solution and tell me of it in another
world, I salute you with great friendship and respect.
278 Jefferson's Works
TO JOHN QUINCY ADAMS.
MONTICELLO, July 18, 1824.
DEAR SIR,--I have safely received the two copies
of the facsimile of the Declaration of Independence
which you have been so kind as send me under
a resolution of Congress. With a deep sense of
respect for this mark of attention to myself I con-
template with pleasure the evidence afforded of
reverence for that instrument, and view in it a
pledge of adhesion to its principles and of a sacred
determination to maintain and perpetuate them.
As toward this holy purpose no one has it 'more
in his power to contribute with effect than your-
self, so I am equally happy in the confidence that
none will do it with more zeal and fidelity, 'and I
pray you to accept the assurance of my great
esteem and respectful consideration.
TO JAMES MADISON.
MONTICELLO, September 24, 1824.
DEAR SIR,-I have got through my catalogue
except the alphabet and send you a result. The
inclosed table shows the number, size and cost
of the whole and its parts. 6860 volumes will
cost twenty-four thousand and seventy-six dollars
or three and one-half dollars a volume on an average
of all sizes. If we get our fifty thousand dollars
and also if ten thousand would do for apparatus,
Supplementary Manuscripts 279
there would remain sixteen thousand to invest
in stock. This would give us a thousand dollars
a year forever, which beginning with such a nucleus
as this would make and keep our library what it
should be. Charlottesville is preparing for Lafayette.
As he will see you at your own house we shall hope
you will come here with him. But in the meantime
you will be with us as a visitor a day or so before
the 4th. Affectionately yours.
TO MESSRS. ADAMS, FITZUHUYLSON AND
BROCKENBROUGH.
MONTICELLO, October 18, 1824.
I have duly received the favor of your invitation
of the 12th instant to join you on the interesting
occasion of the reception of Major-General Lafayette
in testifying the veneration of the citizens of Rich-
mond for his character, their sense of his services
and their affection for his person. No one would
harmonize in all these sentiments more cordially
than myself, no one perhaps having had so pro-
tracted and multiplied proofs not only in the war,
but the peace which followed it, of his zealous
attachment to the service of our country. But at
the age and under the infirmities of eighty-one,
I am no longer equal to such a journey nor able
to avail myself of occasions so distant of joining in
the just expressions of the gratitude of my fellow-
citizens to this early friend and benefactor. I
280 Jefferson's Works
matter myself with being indemnified by the oppor-
tunity he will give to myself and my neighbors
of manifesting here our sense of the services he
rendered our portion of the country particularly,
and our participation in the general joy which his
visit has inspired in every breast.
Declining this kind invitation, therefore, as I
must from necessity, I beg leave to say that my
respect for yourselves and the citizens of Richmond
would have been a great additional inducement
for my acceptance of it. A serious indisposition
of some continuance obliges me to borrow the pen
of another to convey to yourselves and the citizens
of Richmond' these my thanks and regrets, and
the assurance of my high consideration.
TO THE MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.
MONTICELLO, January 16, 1825,
MY DEAR FRIEND,-I have never been more
gratified by the reading of a book than by that
of Flourens which you were so kind as to send me.
Cabanis had gone far toward proving from the
anatomical structure of and action of the human
machine that certain parts of it were probably
the organs of thought and consequently that matter
might exercise that faculty. Flourens proves that
it does exercise it and that deprived of the cerebrum
particularly the animal loses all sense, all intellect
and memory, yet lives in health and for indefinite
Supplementary Manuscripts 281
terms. It will be curious to see what the imma-
terialists will oppose to this.
I congratulate you on the testimony of gratitude
you have lately received from Congress, and that
it was with scarcely a shadow of opposition. The
relief from your debts will give you nights of sound
sleep and the surplus I hope days of ease and com-
fort through the rest of your life. You will have
where you are better advice than I can give you
on the question whether it will not be advisable
to keep the stock in your own hands and in its
original form. There can be no safer deposit on
earth than the Treasury of the United States.
You know how much I have at heart the success
of our university. Its opening now awaits only
the arrival of three professors engaged in England
who were to have sailed in October or November
last, but of whose actual sailing we have not yet
heard. Still we hourly expect them and in the
moment of their arrival shall announce the opening
of the University. I count on its changing the
condition and character of our State in the course
of a very few years. That health, happiness and the
love of all may ever attend you is the constant
prayer of your faithful and affectionate friend.
282 Jefferson's Works
TO WILLIAM H. CRAWFORD.
MoNTIcELLo, February 15, 1825.
DEAR SIR,-Your two letters of January 31
and February 4 were received in due time. With
the former came safely the seed from Mr. Appleton
which I commit to the Agricultural Society of
our county, of which Mr. Madison is president.
Of the talents and qualifications of Dr. Jackson
as a professor in the branches of science specified
in your last letter your recommendation would
have had great weight in our estimation, but our
professors are all designated so that we have no
vacancy in Which we can avail ourselves of his
services.
I had kept back my acknowledgment of these
in the hope I might have added in it congratu-
lations which Would have been cordially offered.
I learnt yesterday, however, that events had not
been what we had wished. The disappointment
will be deeply felt by our State generally, and by
no one in it more seriously than by myself. I
confess that what we have seen in the course of
this election has very much damped the confidence
I had hitherto reposed in the discretion of my
fellow citizens. The ignorance of character, the
personal partialities and the inattention to those
questions which ought to have guided their choice,
augur ill of the wisdom of our future course.
Looking, too, to Congress my hopes are not strength-
Supplementary Manuscripts 283
ened. A decided majority seem to measure their
powers only by what they may think or pretend
to think for the general Welfare of the States.
All limitations, therefore, are prostrated and con-
solidation the general welfare in name but not
in effect is now the principle of every department
of the government. I have not long to witness
this, but it adds another to the motives by which
the decays of nature so finely prepare us for
welcoming the hour of exit from this state of
being.
Be assured that in your retirement you will
carry with you my entire confidence and sincere
prayers for your health, happiness and prosperity.
TO EDWARD EVERETT.
MONTICELLO, July 21, 1825
DEAR SIR,-I thank you for the copies of your
two public addresses inclosed in your favor of
the 6th instant; that of Concord, as a morsel of
(exect) history and of a most interesting event,
was peculiarly acceptable. I am sorry it is not
in my power to give you any information on the
subject of the Louisiana treaty. My memory is
gone and I have no papers on the subject. But
surely the " Conjectural note " you mention as
annexed to the Convention must still remain
annexed and preserved in the Secretary of State's
284 Jefferson's Works
office. Colonel Monroe, too, must be able to give
some account of it, and other resources of infor-
mation will open on you..when you come on to
Congress. The report of the commissioners, Mercer,
McClure and (I believe) Warden, will unquestionably
be in that or the treasury office.
I knew the range of your mind too well ever
to have supposed for a moment you could view
but with contempt the miserable sneers on our
seeking abroad some of the professors for our
University. Had I thought them worth notice
I should have asked of those wits and censors these
questions only. The seminaries of the United € States
being all of them first served for the choice of
the talents of our own country, were we to take the
refuse and place ourselves thus at the fag end of
the whole line ? Would it have been either patriotism
or fidelity in us to have sunk the youth of our
State to a half-lettered grade of education by com-
mitting them to inferior instruction and rejecting
that of the first order merely because offered from
without the limits of our own Union, and the mass
of science among us still further reduced by the
refusal of many eminent characters to accept
academical instructions, and is this the way to
advance the American character? We thought
otherwise and as yet believe we have reason to be
satisfied with the course we have pursued. I hope
the only rivalship 'with our elder sisters will be
in honorable efforts to do the most good possible.
Supplementary Manuscripts 285
I am happy in the expectation which your letter
authorizes that you will think our institution
worthy of a visit and I shall even hope from your
experience and kindness to receive suggestions for
its further improvement than which none would
be more respected by me. I beg you to be assured
also that no visit will be received with more wel-
come than yours.
I am truly gratified by the flattering anticipations
you express of the society of my granddaughter
now arriving at Boston, and hope you will not
be disappointed in this. She is so deeply seated
in my affections that a kindness to her counts
tenfold with me. I think her most fortunate, too,
in the person to whom we have committed her
happiness. I have not been acquainted with a
finer character than Mr. Coolidge, more amiable,
more respectable or more worthy ; and (destined ?)
to relinquish her native home we are thankful
it was in exchange for the favorite seat of hospi-
tality and science.
TO THE MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.
MONTICELLO, August 8, 1825.
MY DEAR FRIEND,-Mr. Rebello of Brazil, who
has rendered us an agreeable visit, tells me you
will be in Washington on the 10th, and that we
may hope to have the pleasure of seeing you here
very soon after that; this we shall ever do with
286 Jefferson's Works
heartfelt welcome. I am not well, but it is a local
complaint which confines me to the house indeed,
but in tolerable health otherwise and I shall be
much the better for your presence which will be
my best medicine, only unable,to make excursions
with you. Not knowing where the enclosed letter
would find Miss Wright; I take the liberty of giving
it the benefit of your cover and of requesting you
to superscribe its address and to dispose of it so
that she may get it as early as practicable. In the
hope of seeing you within a few days and your
companions for whom I here place my respects, I
repeat the assurances of my affectionate and con-
stant friendship and attachment.
TO JAMES MADISON.
MONTICELLO, October 18, 1825.
Everything is going on smoothly at the Uni-
versity. The students are attending to their schools
with more assiduity and looking to their professors
with more respect. The authority of the latter
is visibly strengthened as is the confidence of
those who visit the place, and the effect on the
whole has been salutary. The professors are all
lecturing; the two Cantabs, somewhat in the pouts,
however, are reserved. I sent a copy of the new
enactments the other day with a request they might
be read to the schools for promulgation. .. The
other professors did it, these did not nor said why.
Supplementary Manuscripts 287
My rides to the University have brought on me
great sufferings, reducing my intervals of ease
from forty-five to twenty minutes. This is a good
index of the changes which take place.
I was taken in by Mr. Browere. He said his
operation would be of about twenty minutes, and
less unpleasant than Houdon 's method. I submitted
without enquiry. But it was a bold experiment on
his part on the health of an octogenary worn down
by sickness as well as age. Successive coats of
grout plastered on the naked head and kept there
an hour would have been a severe trial of a young
and hale man. He suffered the plaster also to
get so dry that separation became difficult and
even dangerous. He was obliged to use freely
the mallet and chisel to break it into pieces and
get off a piece at a time. These strokes of the
mallet would have been sensible almost to a logger-
head. The family became alarmed and he confused
till I was quite exhausted, and there became real
danger that the ears would tear from the head
sooner than from the plaster. I now bid adieu
for ever to busts and even portraits. I do not
know whether you are acquainted with Colonel
Peyton of Richmond, as honest and worthy a man
as lives, and the most punctual in business. He
understands that Lay, your correspondent there,
is become bankrupt, and would gladly serve you
there. He has been mine ten or a dozen years
and I never had one who would lend himself even
288 Jefferson's Works
in the smallest things so kindly and zealously.
He has all the business of this neighborhood and
the Staunton county. I know that these con-
nections are dictated often by very special and
personal considerations and my mention of him is
only ut valeat quantum valere debat. Ever and
affectionately yours.
MANUSCRIPTS
FROM
THE VIRGINIA STATE LIBRARY
COLLECTION.
vol. xix-19
INTRODUCTORY NOTES.
A curious old tome bearing the title "Thomas Jefferson's Letter
Book" recently came to light in the Virginia State Library at Rich-
mond. Upon examination it was found to contain copies of letters
and orders sent by Jefferson during the last six months of his Governor-
ship of the State of Virginia. In all probability these letters and orders
were transcribed in this book by one of Jefferson's secretaries or some
other official. Careful consideration of the contents led to the selec-
tions presented in the following pages which, though not attempting
to give the collection in its entirety, owing to repetitions of the same
statement to different persons, may be said, however, to present the
gist of the collection as a whole.
So far as is known this is the first time the letters have been
printed and given to the public. It is well known that Jefferson was
in the habit of retaining a copy of everything that emanated from
his pen. These copies were usually in his own handwriting. It was
presumably owing to the stress of the occasion during which these
letters were issued that he entrusted the€copying to a clerk. Hence
the copies of these letters and orders in the old yellowed volume in
which they have been preserved.
These documents are of unusual interest as written evidences of
Jefferson's efforts to cope with one of the greatest crises of his life,
when, at the expiration of his second term as Governor of Virginia,
his native State was a centre of warring elements. Strife concentrated
about him. He had to supply the Virginia regiment in Washington's
Army with men, and at the same time send all possible support to
General Gates in his Southern Campaign. The Indians in the western
part of the State were a source of constant anxiety and trouble, and
the British and Hessian prisoners had to be guarded and supplied
with provisions. Then came Benedict Arnold, early in January, 1781,
with his vessels of war and sixteen hundred men to besiege and plunder
the city of Richmond, and to cap the climax of Jefferson's trials. How
Jefferson conducted himself is a matter of history which the documents
contained in "The Richmond Collection" further corroborate. testi-
292 Jefferson's Works
fying to his constant endeavors to meet and thwart the difficulties
threatening to overcome him.
The majority of the letters are addressed to Baron Steuben,
General Gates, General Nelson, General Greene, General Muhlenberg
and Marquis de Lafayette. All of them show the activity of Jefferson
in keeping up communication with these commanders throughout the
country wherever they might be engaged in fighting against the
British invaders.
Acknowledgment is due to John P. Kennedy, Librarian of the
Virginia State Library, Richmond, Va., to whose kindness and courtesy
the editors of the present edition of Jefferson's Writings are indebted
for the reproduction of the manuscripts in question.
MANUSCRIPTS FROM THE VIRGINIA 293
STATE LIBRARY COLLECTION.
TO THE QUARTER-MASTERS OF FREDERICK, HAMPSHIRE
AND BERKELEY.
RICHMOND, December 24, 1780.
SIR,-A detachment of the militia of the county
of Frederick being ordered to Fort Pitt on their
way down the Ohio, you are desired to act as com-
missary and quarter-master for them till their
arrival at Fort Pitt. The time of their rendez-
vousing within the county will be made known
to you by the commanding officer. You will,
therefore, provide in time subsistence for them
during their march, and transportation for the
little baggage they will carry. You will also receive
and transport with them to the same place 400
camp kettles, 1000 pounds powder, some medicine
tents and other things. This transportation is
to be effected by wagons or horses for hire, and
not to be purchased. I send you for the purpose
of enabling you to perform these duties to ----
for the expenditure of which you will finally settle
with the board of auditors for the counties of
294 Jefferson's Works
Berkeley and Hampshire the same, except omitting
this sentence " you will also receive tents
and other things. "
Frederick.............. L40,000
Hampshire........... 25,000
Berkeley.................30,000
TO MAJOR-GENERAL BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, January 12, 1781.
SIR,-I was honored with yours of yesterday by
Colonel Loyante. General Weedon, to whom the
care of the works at Fredericksburg had been
committed, being now at Hanover Court-House, I
have referred Colonel Loyante to him, and given
them authority to make use of the brass cannon,
howitz or mortars at New Castle, if they use them,
for they are unmounted. I heard in the same
instant that 744 riflemen under Colonel Matthews
were as far as Albemarle on their way down. Being
then within sixty miles of Fredericksburg I have
ordered them to proceed to that place.
TO MAJOR-GENERAL BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, January 14, 1781.
SIR,-Your letters of the 12th and 13th are now
before me. They are in some measure answered
by some marginal notes on the several articles
in a paper delivered me by Major Walker. If
Supplementary Manuscripts 295
there be any State arms fit for use and still unde-
livered they are so few that we may consider them
as nothing. I should, therefore, think it proper
to discharge so many militia as cannot be furnished
with arms. My letter of yesterday will point out
what particular militia should be discharged.
Should it happen that there are already more
militia with you from the counties enumerated
in my yesterday's letter than you have arms for
would it not be proper to send the surplus of such
militia over to General Nelson to take the place
and arms of so many of his who were not meant
to be detained?
The public have not a pound of powder or other
article of military stores at South Quay, except
some twenty-four and eighteen pound iron cannon:
they are unusually heavy for this bore, and a
quarter-master has been specially sent and em-
ployed there during the last summer in bringing
them over to Suffolk or Smithfield. They have
so far baffled his attempts, as that he has got over
but one of them; another broke down a bridge
on its passage, which suspend his further endeavors.
P. S. If it be possible for you to spare Colonel
Senf to plan our works at Westham we shall be
glad of his assistance.
296 Jefferson's Works
TO COLONEL TIMOTHY PICKERING.
RICHMOND, January 15, 1781
SIR,-I wrote you in a former letter that on
the recommendation of General Greene, we had
proposed to Major Forsyth the accepting the
appointment of deputy quarter-master here, which
you had been pleased to refer to us. ' This appoint-
ment was kept open, I think, a month, during
which time (and indeed at any time since) we
never received any answer from Major Forsyth,
or intimation through any other channel that he
would undertake it. On the contrary it appeared
by letter from him that he had accepted the office
of deputy commissary of purchases for the
Southern Department. In the meantime Colonel
Canington, appointed by General Greene deputy
quarter-master to the Southern army, arrived
here, claimed the right of nomination, and nominated
a Major Claiborne. Though we doubted the pro-
priety of his claim, yet it was a want of acquaintance
with Major Claiborne and a real inability (after
the refusal of Mr. Divers and Major Forsyth) to
find another whom we could recommend in all
points, which induced us to refer the nomination
altogether to Baron Steuben, who was here. He
approved of Major Claiborne as having formerly
known him while of General Greene's family and
assured us the appointment would be particularly
agreeable to General Greene, and that he would
Supplementary Manuscripts 297
undertake to satisfy you also of its propriety. I
thought it my duty to inform you of this matter,
and have no doubt from anything which I have
yet seen but that Major Claiborne will do justice
to the Baron's expectations.
TO GENERAL NELSON.
RICHMOND, January 16, 1781.
SIR,-The bearer hereof, Captain Joel, proposes
to engage with others to undertake with himself
an enterprise on the enemy's fleet wherever it shall
be collected in harbor. As he requires only an
old vessel of the most worthless kind, and proper
preparations for her, I think the object will justify
the risk. So many orders and measures may be
necessary in the detail of executing this business
that I cannot do better than to give a general sanc-
tion to it, and ask the favor of yourself to have
everything provided which he may think necessary
to ensure success. Rewards are expected on des-
perate undertakings of this kind, and though not
necessary to stimulate him, may be necessary for
his associates. I will, therefore, leave it to your-
self to fix them previously, or to agree with the
gentlemen that they shall be referred to the Execu-
tive after the service shall have been performed.
298 Jefferson's Works
TO COLONEL CARRINGTON.
RICHMOND, January 16, 1781.
Sir,-I have desired Colonel Muter to have
delivered to Major Claiborne such of the articles
applied for in your letter of the 10th instant as we
have. We have no tents of any kind. Axes,
spades, shovels and padlocks can probably be
furnished. We have sent to Fredericksburg for
camp-kettles, which shall be forwarded as soon
as they come.
I think a few days will probably determine
the enemy's ultimate designs as to us: in the
meantime I do not wish to give any decisive orders
as to the place of slaughtering the provisions. The
expenditure of pork indeed at this season must
be forbidden. It shall be my endeavor to suffer
this invasion to divert as little as possible of our
supplies for the Southern army. .
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, January 19, 1781.
SIR,-A warrant was yesterday made out for
Mr. Harrison for two hundred thousand dollars,
and I shall take the first opportunity of informing
him that the money is in readiness. This is in
consequence of your requisition communicated by
Major Walker.
Supplementary Manuscripts 299
Dr. Evans, the bearer of your letter, will receive
from the gentleman who has the care of our medicine
whatever articles can be furnished from that stock.
It is a very imperfect collection. I, immediately,
on receiving the communication from you by
Major Walker that you would wish such a person
as you therein described to be with you, laid
it before the Council. We concluded to propose
to Mr. Walker (late one of our delegates) to accept
this office; having once been a member of the
Council, he is not unacquainted with our arrange-
ments. I sent to him by express, and shall hope
for an answer very shortly. I sincerely wish he
may consent to undertake it, as I am satisfied
he can save you much trouble. Should he decline
it I apprehend it is not easy to find another who
will be of real use to you.
None of the militia with General Weedon (except
from the counties of Rockbridge, Augusta, Rock-
ingham and Shenandoah) were of the counties
intended to be kept in the field. I thought it
necessary to mention this circumstance to you,
as you might perhaps think proper to discharge
them before they join General Nelson. I have
the honor to be, with great respect and esteem,
Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant.
300 Jefferson's Works
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, January 19, 1781,
SIR,-Shirts had been ordered for Colonel
Armand's Corps on your former requisition; these,
I believe, are ready. They are ordered to be
delivered to Major Loman's order. We have not
a single article of the others enumerated in his
list of necessaries wanted. We could, therefore,
only undertake for him to furnish money to the
Continental quarter-master or any other proper
person to procure them; if this mode should be
approved, this or any other assistance we can give
shall be afforded. The practice introduced by
the enemy of laying the country through which
they pass under a parole is so mischievous that
I have thought it necessary to issue the proclamation
of which I enclose you a copy. I have the honor
to be, with the greatest esteem, Sir, your most
obedient and most humble servant.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, January, 29 1781.
SIR,-I send you below a list of the counties
which were called on to make a part of the four
thousand men for this invasion, though they were
called into the field on the last invasion also. As
your reduction of the four thousand to two thousand
seven hundred will enable you to discharge some
Supplementary Manuscripts 301
of those counties, I think it would be best that
these below mentioned should be first discharged.
I have the honor to be, with great esteem, Sir, your
most obedient and most humble servant.
Amherst. Amelia
Albemarle. Brunswick.
Fluvanna. Dinwiddie.
Goochland. Chesterfield.
Powhatan. Henrico.
Note.-Rockbridge, Augusta and Rockingham
were also called down on the former invasion, but
I apprehend it will not be proper to discharge them.
TO GOVERNOR NASH OF NORTH CAROLINA.
RICHMOND, February 2, 1781.
SIR,-As it is possible the enemy may mean
to continue in their present position at Portsmouth,
and thereby shut up all commerce through the
bay of Chesapeake, it becomes necessary to make
provision in time through some other channel,
of salt, clothing and coverings for our Southern
army. South Quay presents itself as the most
practicable port. We have found it necessary
here to permit the exportation of corn on public
account to procure salt for public use. Vessels
will, therefore, be freighted with this article from
South Quay, which, as they must of necessity pass
through your State, I hope will be permitted to
pass freely ; indeed could your Excellency give
302 Jefferson's Works
permission to Mr. Ross, our commercial agent,
to procure part of his loading of corn in your State,
it would save much transportation to us. The
returns in salt will be in like manner to South
Quay, or directly up the Roanoke to the magazines
desired to be established by General Greene.
We hope within a short time to complete the
equipments of the residue of our regulars (between
four and five hundred) and to send them on to
General Greene, being determined to permit the
body of plunderers in our State to divert as little
as possible of our effectual aids from the southern
quarter. We shall oppose them with militia, and
send our regulars to join the Southern army.
I have the honor to be, with very great esteem,
your Exeellency's most obedient and most humble
servant.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, February 7, 1781.
SIR,-The inclosed letter contains the first noti-
fication the Executive have received of the existence
of any such cases as that of Lieutenant Warman
therein stated. Exclusive of the justice of his
claim, the express reservation by the board of
officers of the rights of all those in his situations,
seems to place him on the footing on which he
would have been had his commission been actually
made out instead of that of whatever officer was
Supplementary Manuscripts 303
substituted in his place. As you are proceeding
to a new arrangement of our line, I have taken
the liberty of referring Lieutenant Warman with
the inclosed letter to you to claim his rank. Should
these be contrary to the expectations of the Execu-
tive, such reasons against his claim and in favor
of his competition, as in your judgment should
decide this point against Lieutenant Warman,
shall be obliged to you for a communication of
them; and in the meantime to keep the question
open.
I have the honor to be with very great esteem
and respect, your most obedient humble servant.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
IN Council, February 7, 1781,
SIR,-The bearer hereof, Colonel Gaines, a militia
officer in the county of Amherst, being desirous
to become qualified in fact for the command he
holds in his county, has applied to us to be per-
mitted to serve on such a footing as will place
it in his power to acquire a knowledge of his duty,
asking nothing but rations and forage. While
others, offended at the preference given to officers
formerly of the line, have resigned commissions,
the duty of which they were not qualified to dis-
charge, this gentleman more laudably determines
to learn those duties. This spirit we wish to
encourage because produced by a due tempera-
304 Jefferson's Works
ment of modesty and patriotism. Now, therefore,
as the undertaking is, I must beg the favor of
you to find some means of disposing not only of
him, but of any others who may apply for the
same purpose, so as to put it in their power to
acquire the knowledge necessary to enable them
to act in their proper command hereafter. The
rations and forage allowed them shall be at the
expense of the State. I am, with much respect,
Sir, yours, etc.
TO THE VIRGINIA DELEGATES IN CONGRESS.
RICHMOND, February 7, 1781.
GENTLEMEN,-The Courier d'Europe, a vessel
from Penet and Company, having on board military
stores for this State, was chased into Boston by
the enemy in the summer of 1779. They were
principally artillery stores, too bulky and heavy
for us to think of bringing them on by land. By
the loss of our papers we are unable to furnish
an invoice of them, but they are in the hands of
a Mr. I. Bradford, in Boston, who, I suppose, can
furnish you with one. If you can get them on
board any part of the French fleet, which may
at any time be coming here, it would be eligible;
otherwise I beg the favor of you. to have them
disposed of to the best advantage for the public.
I am, with very great respect and esteem, gentle-
men, your most obedient and most humble servant.
Supplementary Manuscripts 305
TO GENERAL NELSON.
IN COUNCIL, February 10, 1781.
DEAR GENERAL,-Information having been given
the Board that sundry horses of British property,
having been left by the enemy, were taken by our
militia or unarmed citizens, and a question made
whether they belong to the Commonwealth or the
captor, we are of opinion that they should be
yielded to the captor. It is thought, however,
when any public doubt can arise who was captor,
that the horses should be put in the hands of the
State quarter-master, and the party or parties
claiming make their right appear to the Commis-
sioner of the War Office. As this question, as far
as we are informed, concerns only persons under
your command, I take the liberty of communicating
it to you.
Your disposition of the hides of slaughtered
beeves is approved of. I am sorry any loss has
been incurred in that article before. We made
it the subject of inquiry on the former invasion,
and from the reports made to us, had reason to
believe all had been taken care of. The oil is
almost of as much importance as the hide.
The wagons which were sent to Fredericksburg for
camp-kettles found none ready made. Mr. Hunter
is making more, and other wagons will go off for
them within three on four days. As fast as they
are brought we shall endeavor to send them to
VOL. XIX-20
I
306 Jefferson's Works
the militia. It would be well for us to be informed
what number you have.
I am, with great respect, etc., etc.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
IN COUNCIL, February 12, 1781.
SIR,-I have been honored with your letter
of yesterday's date. Your representation of the
importance of erecting a small work at Hood's
was considered by the Executive as an evidence
of your friendly attentions to the defence of the
State, and was by them, as you desired, laid before
the assembly. The assembly,pressed in time, did
not, as far as I am informed take it under con-
sideration. The invasion which took place just
before their rising prevented anything further
being done till the departure of the enemy from
this place, and the return of the Executive to it.
The proposition of undertaking the work which
you then again renewed was approved by them,
and they determined to procure if possible the
several articles necessary for carrying it into imme-
diate execution according to a plan and estimate
prepared by Colonel Senf. I think, however, you
misapprehended us when you understood it was
agreed that the forty negroes and ten artificers
required should be furnished by the five nearest
counties, and be at the spot the 7th instant; it
does not occur to myself, or any gentleman of the
Supplementary Manuscripts 307
Council, that the 7th, or any other day was fixed
on for their assembling. and that we could not
have agreed that the forty negroes and ten artificers
should be furnished by the five nearest counties
may be deduced from the conversation which you
will recollect to have passed between us the evening
before you last went to Cabin Point. You informed
me you meant to call for twenty militia from each
of the five circumjacent counties to come.to Hood's
with their hoes and axes tb erect the work, but
to notify them at the same time that you would
receive ten negroes in their room. And you asked
me whether you must apply to government for
authority to do this. I answered, that such an
application would produce no effect, as it had
been the subject of conversation at the Council
Board that day, and the Board was of opinion
we had no right to call out the militia to do fatigue
duty. You then replied, you could do it of your
own authority and throw yourself on the assembly
for a justification.
I repeat this conversation thus particularly to
satisfy you that we could not have agreed that
the five nearest counties should produce these
laborers,' and of course that we stand discharged
of having failed to fulfil such an agreement.
The Executive have not by the laws of this
State, any power to call a freeman to labor even
for the public without his consent, nor a slave
without that of his master: sensible of this, when
308 Jefferson's Works
we first proposed to undertake this work, as you
meant that Colonel Senf should superintend it,€..
I desired him to search among our artillery officers
whom he would choose to conduct it under his
direction, and that this officer should immediately
proceed to hire the slaves in the neighborhood
of Hood's, where I thought it most likely the people
would be willing to hire as the work respected
their safety more immediately. He did so, and
sent a Captain Allen on this business. In a sub-
sequent journey to Petersburg Colonel Senf informed
me that he had himself engaged eight or ten. Four
carpenters were assigned to Colonel Senf at this
place. The several articles of tools (except hoes)
and fascine knives and barrows were procured
for him here, a boat to carry them down, and I
took it for granted that they went. The two
blacksmiths are ready at this place when wanted.
What success Captain Allen has had is not reported
to me. The Executive are far from thinking
this work unnecessary; nor yet that it will be out
of their power to furnish the necessaries for erect-
ing it. Yet they may possibly be disappointed
in their expectations of engaging voluntary laborers,
the only means in their power. Sensible that a
necessary work is not to be abandoned because their
means are not so energetic as they could wish them,
and on the contrary that it is their duty to take those
means as they find them and to make the most of
them for the public good, they propose to pursue
Supplementary Manuscripts 309
this work, and if they cannot accomplish it in a
shorter, they will in a longer time.
From a review of these circumstances, I hope
you will be persuaded that any delays which may
have occurred have been produced by circumstances
which it was not in our power to control, and not
from either a want of attention or inclination
to the work. I have the honor to be, with great
respect, yours, etc., etc.
TO SPEAKER HARRISON
(HOUSE OF BURGESSES).
RICHMOND, February 12, 1781.
SIR,-Colonel John Gibson is appointed to go
as next in command under General Clarke on the
business communicated to you. As Colonel Gibson
is now here he will return to Fort Pitt by the way
of Baltimore to see the powder sent on, and prevent
any danger of its stopping by the way. Be so
good as to lodge at Goddard's, the printer, in Balti-
more, a line to Colonel Gibson informing him in
what State the procuring of the powder is; he will
call there for it.
That your information may be perfect as we
can render it, I am to inform you that the three
months' militia under General Stevens in North
Carolina, their number not known, are discharged,
having served their term out. For southern news
I beg leave to refer you to the President of Con-
310 Jefferson's Works
gress, who has a letter from Baron Steuben giving
information of the events in the neighborhood
of General Greene, and one from myself as to the
movements of the enemy at Cape Fear. Arnold
remains quiet. Colonel `Dunlap came out the first
instant with five hundred men towards Suffolk.
General Lawson went down toward him with an
equal number, whereon Dunlap returned in the
night. They are drawing their shipping into
shallow water, and have a large vessel from New
York cut down so as to mount twenty twenty-four
pounders on one deck. I am, etc., etc.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, February 13, 1781.
SIR,-The inclosed resolutions of Congress of
January 8th and April 9th, 1779, under which
Captain Weths' independent company at Fort Pitt
were raised, will inform you of a condition to which
they seem entitled of not being removed from
that station without their consent; the subsequent
one of October 3d, 1780, incorporates them in
positive terms into the troops of the State. The
former resolutions were probably not recollected
at the time. The footing on which, therefore,
they seem to stand rightfully, is to remain at Fort
Pitt if they choose it; but as it was the desire
of Congress that they should be annexed to some
of our regiments, and Colonel J. Gibson thinks
Supplementary Manuscripts 311
they would rather join his than remain at Fort
Pitt after losing their own officers, I beg leave to
refer to you whether it might not be proper that
you should order so many of them to be annexed
to that regiment as should be willing to join it.
This, while it pays due respect to a solemn engage-
ment with those.people, will probably effect the
wish of Congress in reducing that, as well as other
detached corps, to some regular from.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, Sir,
your most obedient and most humble servant.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, February 15, 1781.
SIR,-I received last night a letter from General
Greene referring me for particulars to you. How-
ever, he gives me enough to convince me that
reinforcements of militia must be sent him. I
think the most speedy and effectual reinforcement
would be the militia of Rockbridge, Augusta,
Rockingham and Shenandoah now encamped below,
provided they can be induced to go willingly.
The length of their march heretofore, and having
been some time in service, seems to give them a
right to be consulted. I leave the detaching them
to the aid of General Greene to your better judg-
ment. Should you approve of it and think it
necessary to call other militia to take their place,
I will order others. Besides this reinforcement to
312 Jefferson's Works
General Greene I propose to order from Washington,
Montgomery and Botetourt, five hundred and forty
riflemen, and from Pittsylvania and Henry four
hundred and eighty, who will want arms; to these
add the detachment at Chesterfield C. H. I send
out to-day the orders to Washington, Montgomery,
Botetourt, Pittsylvania and Henry. If you would
advise any more, and think they can be armed,
more will be sent.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, Sir,
etc. , etc.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, February 17, 1781.
SIR,-Mr. Loyall, from the post at the North
West Bridge, representing to me that about four
hundred of the militia of Princess Anne and Nor-
folk are embodied, that they annoy the enemy
considerably, restraining their foraging parties, and
checking their motions (which latter circumstance
is confirmed by letter from General Lawson), but
that they are dispirited for want of some com-
munication with the main army on the northern
end of the Dismal, and meditating to lay down
their arms. I submit to yourself the propriety
of establishing a line of riders from General Gre-
gory's camp to such of your posts as you shall
think proper. Your order (if you think proper)
to Colonel Elliott, the field quarter-master, will
Supplementary Manuscripts 313
suffice to effect this. I have taken the liberty
of referring Mr. Loyall to you. He will also speak
with you on the subject of arms; but as those
already embodied are armed, I cannot but doubt
the expediency of sending any from our stock
under present circumstances.
I order the commissary to send a deputy to
subsist these men on the east of the Dismal. Every
circumstance of notice will keep up their spirits;
and if the enemy can be restrained from foraging
below Portsmouth as well- as above, they will be
less easy in their situation. I am, etc., ete.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, February 18, 1781.
SIR,-I have this moment received intelligence
that Lord Cornwallis continues his rapid approach,
and there is reason to believe he was at Roanoke
on the 14th. This information is not authentic,
yet it comes in such manner as to command some
attention. I have, therefore, thought it expedient
to order every man of the counties of Powhatan,
Cumberland, Amelia, Lunenburg and Brunswick
who has a firelock, or for whom one can be pro-
cured, to be embodied and marched immediately
to join General Greene, and those of the counties
of Chesterfield and Dinwiddie to be embodied,
but not marched till further orders, which they
314 Jefferson's Works
may receive at the moment of embodying better
adapted to actual circumstances.
I am aware of the possibility that my informa-
tion may be premature, yet as its truth is equally
possible and the consequences of disregarding it
might be so much more fatal, I think it my duty
to take this measure. I am, etc., etc.
TO GENERAL GREENE.
RICHMOND, February 19, 1781.
SIR,-I wrote you in haste yesterday by the
return of your express in answer to your letter
of the 15th. Major McGill not being able to set
out till this morning, furnishes me with an oppor-
tunity of inclosing you regular blank powers of
impress to be directed to such persons as you shall
think proper for impressing horses for your dragoons.
When we ordered out the militia from the several
counties we ordered them to go properly officered,
as we had no certainty of there being any regular
officers ready to command them. There is now
a great collection of regular officers at Chester-
field C. H., met for the purpose of arranging our
line and discharging it of supernumeraries. As
there are not regulars for even those who will
remain in the service to command, I shall submit
to Baron Steuben, whether, besides requesting
all those who shall be declared supernumerary
to go to you, it may not be expedient to send
Supplementary Manuscripts 315
those also who though remaining of the line cannot
have a. present command for want of men. If
these go, it will be in your power to permit such
of the militia officers to return home as choose it,
and forming the men into small battalions, to
dispose of both regular and militia officers as you
please.
Baron Steuben has availed himself at Suffolk
of the regular officers by forming the militia into
regiments of four hundred each, and dividing
the regiment into two battalions of two hundred
each. This gave room for the regular officers,
who, of course, commanded those of the militia
of the same rank; however, this and every other
plan is submitted to yourself. I have the honor
to be, with very great esteem, Sir, etc., etc.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, February 21, 1781.
SIR,-I received from Mr. Armistead yesterday
afternoon a copy of the receipt for the one hundred
and seventeen blankets. He excuses himself for
the error in calling them one hundred and fifty-
five from having spoken by memory. I did not
observe till I delivered it to you that the certi-
ficate of the delivery of Mr. Ross's blankets (one
hundred and five I think there were) wanted a
date. I know, however, that they were delivered
about the same time with those from Mr. Armistead.
316 Jefferson's Works
There will still remain ninety unaccounted for,
which will be worth inquiring.
The enclosed letter from the Continental director
of the hospital at Fredericksburg being proper
to be transmitted to whatever person has succeeded
Dr. Kirkman, either in his office generally or in
the custody of the Continental medicines, and
being uninformed who that person is, I take the
liberty of submitting it to your order.
TO THE OFFICER COMMANDING THE NAVAL FORCE
OF HIS MOST CHRISTIAN' MAJESTY ON THE COAST
OF VIRGINIA.
RICHMOND, February 28, 1781.
SIR,-I have the honor to forward to you the
inclosed letter which accompanied others from
General Washington and the Marquis Lafayette
to the honorable Major-General Baron Steuben
and myself. That there may be no disappoint-
ment in procuring the pilots required, I get the
favor of Captain Maxwell, Naval Commander to
this State, to proceed to Hampton to provide them.
His knowledge of the service and of the properest
persons to be employed will, I hope, ensure our
getting them. You will be pleased to advise
him as to the number necessary. The commu-
nication between yourself and the commanding
officer on shore, I suppose to be at present safe and
easy. If you can point out anything which it is in
Supplementary Manuscripts 317
my power to have done to render it more so, I shall
with great pleasure have it done.
General Washington mentions that you had
been so kind as to take on board some arms and
clothing on account of this State. Captain Max-
well is instructed to take measures for receiving
them. I shall be happy to have it in my power
to contribute by any orders I can give towards
supplying your troops with provisions, or any
other necessaries which may promote their health
or accommodation, and in every instance to testify
our gratitude tn your nation in general, and your-
self personally, for the aid you have brought us
on the present emergency, and the honor to be,
with the greatest esteem and respect, Sir, yours,
etc. , etc.
TO COLONEL PICKERING.
RICHMOND, March 4, 1781.
SIR,-I am very sorry that the appointment
of deputy quarter-master in this State has been
so managed as to produce difficulty. You will
he pleased to observe that after I wrote to Major
Forsythe to know whether he would accept of it,
I waited upwards of a month and received no
answer. The business of transportation suffered
greatly for want of a head to the several deputies,
and much distressed the Southern army. At the
end of that period I received a letter from Major
318 Jefferson's Works
Forsythe taking no notice of the appointment of
deputy quarter-master which had been tendered
him, and showing that he was acting under a new
appointment of deputy commissary-general to the
Southern army, or of the Southern department,
I forget which. From this it was supposed that
he declined undertaking the office of deputy
quarter-master, and the papers were put into
the hands of Baron Steuben and a new appoint-
ment made, as has been formerly explained to
you. At the time we proposed Major Forsythe
as deputy quarter-master his former office of deputy
commissary of purchases in this State was become
a nullity, because we had undertaken to provide
by agents of our own, the specifics required by
Congress, which were to be delivered to store-
keepers under the direction of the quarter-master.
There was, therefore, nothing to be done by a
Continental commissary of purchases within the
State. The present appointment, however, of
Major Forsythe as deputy commissary-general to
the Southern army will require his attendance
on that army, will occupy his time fully in pro-
curing provisions to subsist the army during the
intervals, which the irregularities of the specific
supplies by the several States will necessarily
occasion, and, therefore, seems not to leave it
in his power to perform the duties of your deputy
in this State. I have the pleasure, however, to
inform you that Major Forsythe expresses himself
Supplementary Manuscripts 319
perfectly satisfied, and does not propose to urge
a right to the appointment.
Major Claiborne being at first utterly unknown
to me, I was afraid to do more in my former letter
to you than to hand to you what was said of him
by others. The duties of his office, giving me
daily occasion to judge of him from my own obser-
vation, I think he is exceedingly attentive, dis-
creet, with talents not inferior to the office, and
upon the whole that he will give you satisfaction.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, Sir,
yours, etc., etc.
TO THE HONORABLE JUDGES OF THE HIGH COURT OF
CHANCERY.
RICHMOND, March 5, 1781.
SIR,-The Executive (on the public account)
are under a difficulty which will be sufficiently
explained by the within paper. ' You will perceive
by that that we propose to refer the matter to
arbitration in another State. Nevertheless, we
suppose the only question which' occasions a doubt
(that is whether if Mr. Nathan took up the bills
bona fide, as he alleges, he is entitled to a pay-
ment in hard, money at par) must have been fre-
quently decided, and in such case we should be
unwilling to show such ignorance of the law as
to require an award on a clear point. I am, there-
fore, desired to beg, your advice on that point,
320 Jefferson's Works
assuring you that it shall not come in question
before you judicially. If you shall be of opinion
that we ought to pay at par we shall do it; if you
think otherwise it shall be referred, as you see
by the papers, has been agreed on. I am only
to trouble you further for an immediate answer,
if you will be so good as to oblige us. I am, with
very great esteem, your most obedient servant.
TO THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF DELEGATES.
IN COUNCIL, March 9, 1781.
SIR,-The Executive were informed during the
last summer or fall, that the Accomack and Diligence
galleys were deserted by officers and men, and
left open to be plundered of their guns and furniture.
Orders were immediately given to Commodore
Baron to arrest the officers, to have the men sought
for and taken, one of the galleys brought round
to the Bayside of the eastern shore and manned
with the same men and the other to be brought
to the western shore to be repaired. The bay
being infested with privateers at that time pre-
vented the immediate execution of the orders,
and the subsequent invasions which took place
in October and December have continued the
interruption of our intercourse with that shore.
In the meantime we learn that the vessels have
been much plundered, and their hulls so injured
as to render it doubtful whether worth repairing.
Supplementary Manuscripts 321
We have taken, and shall continue to pursue,
measures for punishing those who have thus abused
the public, and recovering indemnification, but
should it be not expedient to dispose of the hulls,
the sanction of the general assembly, if they
approve of it, would be necessary.
I have the honor to be, etc., etc.
TO GENERAL MUHLENBERG.
IN, COUNCIL, March 16, 1781.
SIR,-We have thought it better to change our
line of expresses from hence to your headquarters,
and make it across the river at Hood's. Mr. Kempe
comes down with sundry articles procured at the
request of the Marquis, and to procure others
which could not be got here. These you will be
so kind as to have taken care of to be delivered
to the particular order of the Marquis when he
shall arrive. I before wrote to ask the favor of
you to take measures for the subsistence and safe
custody of the horses procured for the Marquis
by Mr. Smith or his agents.
The militia who were first called into service
and still remain are, as I am informed, impatient
to be relieved. They should certainly have been
relieved before this, but it cannot be unknown
to them that an enterprise is meditated, which may
put an end, in some measure, to the necessity of
calling them from their homes in the future. I
VOL€ XIX-2 I
322 Jefferson's Works
think that a successful attempt on the present
army in Portsmouth will prevent our enemies from ever
trusting another in Chesapeake. To
change the whole militia at such a crisis would
be the most dangerous operation that could be
attempted. I will beg you to assure them that
the moment this enterprise is over, and I hope
not very many days will be requisite, a relief shall
be ready to take their places if a relief shall be
necessary. I shall be glad to hear from you fre-
quently, and am, with much esteem, Sir, yours,
etc. , etc.
TO THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF DELEGATES.
IN COUNCIL, March 17, 1781.
SIR,-I take the liberty of inclosing to the general
assembly, the within proposition from Mr. Ross,
the Continental agent for the State, as the legis-
lature alone can carry it into effect, should it meet
with approbation. I have the honor to be, with
very great respect, Sir, yours, etc., etc.
TO THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF DELEGATES.
IN COUNCIL, March 17, 1781.
SIR,-The inclosed act of Congress will inform
you of the final ratification of the confederation
of thirteen United States of America. I beg leave
to congratulate the general assembly on this
Supplementary Manuscripts 323
very important event, by which a firm bond of
union is drawn on these States, our friends enabled
to report confidence in our engagements, and our
enemies deprived of their only remaining hope. I
have the honor to be, etc.
TO HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR OF HISPANIOLA.
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA, MarCh 24, 1781.
SIR,-Mr. David Ross, commercial agent for this
State., who, as such, is entrusted with the exporta-
tion of commodities on the public account, and
information of necessaries for the army, dispatches
a vessel for the island over which your Excellency
presides.
The extreme distress of this State for arms and
military stores, and the unison of object of his
most Christian Majesty and the North American
States in the present war against Great Britain,
embolden me to ask your Excellency's permission
to the agent of Mr. Ross to purchase, either from
private or public stores within your government,
and to export such arms and military stores as
the proceeds of the cargo may enable him to purchase.
Not knowing whether the regulations of your
government may admit this without your per-
mission, I have taken the liberty of troubling
your Excellency with this application, and have
the honor to be, with sentiments of the highest
324 Jefferson's Works
respect, your Excellency's most obedient and most
humble servant.
TO HIS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR NASH.
RICHMOND, MARCH 24, 1781.
SIR,-The situation of affairs in our eastern and
southern quarters rendering peace on our western
frontier extremely desirable, the general assembly
of this State, by a resolution which I do myself
the honor of enclosing to your Excellency, have
recommended a conciliation with the Cherokees
in a particular manner. Not knowing what is
the present situation of the war with that nation
I have given authority to Colonels Preston and
Christian and Major Martin to concur with any
commissioners whom your Excellency may think
proper to authorize, to treat on the subject of
peace, whenever a proper occasion shall offer.
I cannot doubt your concurrence in opinion that
it is our policy to discontinue the division of our
western militia from their attention to the Southern
war. Should you be pleased to make such an
appointment on your part, your commissioners will
be enabled immediately to open a correspondence
with ours, so as to agree on circumstances, lines
and places. The resolution seems to suppose some
ground of complaint to exist with the Cherokees
as to their boundary. As none such of late date
have come to my knowledge, I could only assure
Supplementary Manuscripts 325
the commissioners that every just cause of com-
plaint on that subject should be removed by us
as far as this State is concerned in it. Better
information will perhaps enable you to be more
precise in your instructions to your commissioners.
I had the honor of your Excellency's letter of
the 17th instant from Granville county. I have
given orders to our commissary to instruct his
agents in Mecklenburg and Halifax counties to
pursue the plan your Excellency had begun, and
to avail himself in the fullest manner of the resource
which the river and seasons afford us. He will
send out salt for the purpose of curing what fish
can be taken there. He apprehends considerable
difficulty in the article of barrels.
You will, no doubt, before this. reaches you,
hear of the arrival of twelve British ships in our
bay, under Graves and Arbuthnot. Seven of them
are of the line, two 50's, the others smaller. . They
are said to have fallen in with the French fleet
destined for the same place just off the capes, and
to have had a partial engagement in which neither
suffered the loss of a ship or other material injury.
I apprehend our plans against Arnold will fall
to the ground. I am, etc., etc.
326 Jefferson's Works
TO GENERAL GREENE.
IN COUNCIL, MARCH 24, 1781.
SIR,-I do myself the honor of inclosing to you
some resolutions of general assembly on the subject
of the horses procured and to be procured for the
first and third regiments of cavalry, in the execution
of which I shall need your assistance. Repre-
sentations were made by the conduct of the persons
who were, or pretended to be, entrusted with the
execution of the impress warrants, which I had
inclosed to you, very unfavorably to them. They
are said to have transgressed extremely, not only
by exceeding the tract of country to which the
warrants were restrained, but in the kind of horses
on which they seized. This produced the reso-
lutions of March 7th, the first of which is no doubt
become unnecessary, as I suppose the departure
of the enemy from this State, and their present
tendency renders nugatory, warrants which were
restrained to the neighborhood and probable route
of the enemy. I should otherwise ask the favor
of you to issue your orders for the discontinuance
of impresses under those warrants altogether. The
second resolution of the same date obliges me to
trouble you with ordering the several persons
who have been employed in these impresses to
make a report of their proceedings therein, which
may be done by way of calendar under these heads,
to with 1st. The species of horse impressed, that
Supplementary Manuscripts 327
is whether a stone horse, gelding or brood mare.
2d. A description by the size, age, and general
appearance, which latter circumstance I would
only wish to have designated by such short terms
as those "fine," " indifferent," etc., etc. 3d. The
sum at which estimated. 4th. Whose property.
8th. In what county inpressed. 6th. By whom
impressed. 7th. To what purpose applied.
This, I apprehend, will answer most of the pur-
poses which the general assembly had in view.
Should there have been any other circumstances
in the conduct of these gentlemen which would
become proper subjects of enquiry, they can only
be gathered from those who would be interested
in producing them. On view of such a report
yourself also will be enabled to judge which par-
ticular horses, according to the same resolution,
must be returned to their owners.
Before it will be in our power to proceed in the
execution of the resolution of March 17th I must
give you the trouble of procuring me information
what number of horses will be wanting to fill up
the two regiments after withdrawing such of the
impress horses as are, by the resolution before
mentioned, to be returned. It would be the wish
of the Executive to appropriate a certain portion
of the money for the purchase of these, and that
this should be laid out by persons of your own
appointment if it would be agreeable to you. I am,
etc. , etc.
328 Jefferson's Works
TO THE MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.
IN COUNCIL, March 28, 1781.
SIR; Colonel Senf handed me a list of entrench-
ing tools and other necessaries for the operations
against Portsmouth. Notwithstanding present
appearances, I shall have them proceed. I appre-
hend we shall be obliged to have many of them
made at Fredericksburg.
Mr. Walker delivered me your wish to have
seamen procured for manning the armed vessels.
I know of no method of effecting this but by draught-
ing from the lower militia such men as are used
to the water. Should this weaken the body of
militia too much we can have them reinforced
by other militia, but perhaps the arrival of the
fleet and transports of the enemy may have rendered
our plans against Portsmouth desperate; in which
case economy would require the immediate dis-
charge of the private vessels now retained at the
expense and risk. I shall discharge all of them
except the three largest, and as to them await
your opinion. Captain Maxwell is at present,
and for some time will be, at the shipyard on Chick-
ahominy endeavoring to withdraw the vessels and
stores from that place into James river. He will
there receive any others you may wish to have
executed within the naval department. When he
shall have effected the business on which he is
there engaged, I will take care to make known
Supplementary Manuscripts 329
to you the station he takes, and that it be con-
venient to your situation.
We are now calling for militia as stated below,
to relieve those who have had so very long a tour.
They will probably begin to come in within a fort-
night, and be all in within four weeks. These
of the counties of Loudoun, Fauquier, Prince William,
Fairfax, Spotsylvania, Caroline and Culpeper, some
of whom are already in and some coming under
calls issued some little time ago are meant to be
retained, and with those stated below to constitute
the force of the ensuing two or three months. We
are the more anxious to relieve the militia who
have been so long in the field because, during
their absence the act for raising new levies is sus-
pended in their counties
Captain Reid's troop of horse is just arrived
here from guarding the Saratoga prisoners, in
which business it has been employed for eighteen
months past. They came under an order which
was meant to carry them into immediate service
below, but Captain Reid reports them to me as
totally unfit for service from poverty, sore back
and broken saddles. I, . therefore, have thought
it best to send them to Port Royal to refit, as
there is at that place a plenty of forage which
cannot be brought forward for the use of either
army, and they will be convenient to Fredericks-
burg where their equipments may be effected.
I have the pleasure to inclose you a letter of
330 Jefferson's Works
the 23d, from General Greene, and am, with sen-
timents of the highest respect and esteem, Sir,
yours, etc., etc.,
Hampshire..............242 Berkeley.......250
Shenandoah.............257 Frederick......267
Orange.................140 Stafford.......113
Louisa.................140 King George....114
Essex................. 107
1598
TO BARON STEUBEN.
IN COUNCIL, April 3, 1871.
SIR,-No term having been fixed by the Executive
for the service of the militia, I do not know whence
it could have been collected that it was within
ten days of expiring. Nevertheless it is most
certain they would have been relieved long e'er
this had it not been for the enterprise meditated
against Portsmouth. It was thought too danger-
ous to change the whole body of militia at that
critical juncture. The moment that object was
laid aside we called for militia from the counties
named in the margin, who with those before called
from Loudoun, Fauquier, Fairfax, Prince William,
Spotsylvania, Caroline and Culpeper were intended
to constitute the force acting in the field the succeed-
ing two or three months, discharging all others
as fast as they should come in. From these calls
Supplementary Manuscripts 331
we expected twenty-seven hundred men, the
number you had desired to keep up while
nothing offensive was meditated. Of all this we
gave notice to the Marquis Lafayette, the then
commanding officer. Considering the unusually long
tour the riflemen and other militia below have
served, I think every acknowledgment of their
patient service just, and every encouragement
necessary to keep them contentedly till the arrival
of the reliefs ordered from the counties in the
margin. I suppose we are not to expect the men
till the middle of the month, and that it will be
the last of the month before all get in. We take
for granted you will be pleased always to notify
the executive the number of men you think requisite
in the field, which may enable them to give orders
for them on the proper counties, I am, etc., etc.
Hampshire..............242 Stafford.........113
Berkeley...............250 Louisa...........140
Frederick..............267 King George......114
Shenandoah.............217 Essex............107
Orange.................140
1598
TO GENERAL MUHLENBERG.
IN CouNcIL, April 3, 1781.
SIR,-The men under your command who have
been in the field from the beginning of the invasion,
332 Jefferson's Works
having served a tour of duty unusually long, I
am anxious to have them satisfied of the accidents
which have as yet prevented their relief. Others
would have been ordered in their places long e'er
this, had it not been for the enterprise meditated
against Portsmouth. The changing the whole
militia was thought too dangerous an operation
at that critical time. They know the circum-
stances which occasioned this enterprise to be
laid aside. The moment the arrival of a reinforce-
ment to the enemy obliged us to discontinue our
intentions, a body of militia was called for to relieve
them, from the counties which had not yet been
in service. I state to you in the margin the whole
of them. The six counties first named were called
on to aid the operations against Portsmouth. It
was meant, however, that they shall be kept with
the nine last named to serve a full tour and con-
stitute the opposing force, discharging all others
as fast as these came in, and first those which have
been longest in the field. I must solicit your
most exact attention to the return of all public
arms and accoutrements and ammunition put into
the hands of -militia, whenever they shall be
discharged. No man should be discharged till
he does this or gives a satisfactory account of
their loss or expenditure.
@#(1) Loudoun, 168 ; Fauquier, 292 ; Fairfax, 200 ; Prince william, 185 ;
Spotsylvania, 120 ; Caroline, 260 ; Culpeper, 352 ; Hampshire, 242 ;
Berkeley, 258; Frederick, 267; Shenandoah, 217; Orange, 140; Staf-
ford, 113; Louisa, 140; King George, 114; Essex, 107-3075 @#
Supplementary Manuscripts 333
I think myself very particularly obliged to
acknowledge the patient service of those who
have been so long from home, and am anxious
that they should know that this has not proceeded
from any previous intention in government, but
from the circumstances before explained. I hope
they will be relieved in a very few days, and that
in the meantime they will fill up the measure of
merit by continuing to restrain the excursions of
the enemy till others can come to succeed to those
duties. I beg leave to have these matters particu-
larly explained to Colonel Matthews and Bouyer,
and through them to their men, who, I believe,
have been longest from home. I am, etc., etc.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
IN COUNCIL, April 6, 1781.
SIR,-The Executive have had it much at heart
to prevent, as far as possible, interruption in
raising the new levies while they were constrained
to bring a number of militia into the field. For
this reason about one-half of the counties in the
northern part of the State were not called on for
militia till they had time to go through their draught.
This being done by them, they have been all of
them (except those laying much exposed on the
bay and lower parts of the rivers) required to
send one-fourth of their militia to relieve those
of the southern counties now in the field.
334 Jefferson's Works
Those amounted but to the number of three
thousand and seventy-five, and we had wished
as soon as they could be in, and the southern counties
discharged, to set those southern counties to raising
their new levies, and leave them undisturbed during
that operation, which would employ them two
months. This plan has, however, been broken
on by a requisition from General Greene of fifteen
hundred militia, which obliged us to call on eleven
of those counties. Anxious as we are to favor the
raising the new levies we would not sacrifice to it the
manifest safety of the State, and will, therefore,
call for from them any number of militia you shall
think requisite to act defensively in this State.
Major Nelson's third troop came here, and, Captain
Reid reported them totally unfit for service, from
poverty, sore backs, etc. I, therefore, ordered
them to Port Royal to recruit their horses and
to have their equipments repaired at Fredericks-
burg, of which I informed the Marquis Fayette.
Perhaps the quarter-master in that quarter might
best judge whether Armand's corps could be accom-
modated and fed there also, or whether there
be any better place in his district. I am, etc., etc.
TO MAJOR-GENERAL NATHANIEL GREENE.
IN COUNCIL, April 5, 1781.
SIR,-It was formerly usual to require from
the Continental staff officers in this State, warrants
Supplementary Manuscripts 335
from Congress for all moneys advanced to them.
Since the war has been transferred to the south-
ward, the calls for money have been so apparently
indispensable that we could not await warrants
from Congress as had been before practised on
draughts from yourself or Major General Gates,
to whom authority to draw for money was given.
Nevertheless we think it essential to obtain your
sanction of the moneys after payment of them,
for which purpose I take the liberty of troubling
you with Major Claiborne's receipt for some moneys
from the State, which were ordered without any
previous authority from a sense of their necessity.
It is not in our power to produce you the L5,000
hard money which you desired, but we have put
into the hands of Major Claiborne a warrant for
half a million of pounds current money to be liable
to your order only. Perhaps you can find means
to have the hard money purchased in Philadelphia
for money to be paid here.
That you may form some idea of the indiscretions
which have occasioned a dissatisfaction in the
impresses of horses, I inclose you copies of two
papers lodged with me against a Mr. Rudder
employed in that business. Instead of soothing
the minds of the people, and softening the harsh
act of taking their valuable horses by force, it
has been frequently accompanied, as we are informed,
by defiances of the civil power, and circumstances
of personal irritation.
336 Jefferson's Works
As tedious as is the operation of reasoning with
every individual on whom we are obliged to exercise
disagreeable powers, yet free people think they
have a right to an explanation of the circumstances
which give rise to the necessity under which they
suffer. Such has been the general irritation under
these impresses that we have been obliged to
authorize the county lieutenants to restrain them
under the directions of the resolutions of the
assembly I formerly inclosed you. I am, etc. , etc,
TO COLONEL HENRY LEE.
IN COUNCIL, April 13, 1781.
SIR,-I am exceedingly sorry to hear that the
counties on Potomac are so much harassed by
the enemy, and am very apprehensive it will con-
tinue some time until our allies can clear us of
them, which I hope and expect.
The act of assembly referred to in your letter
as authorizing the Executive to raise militia cavalry,
only gave that authority where there was reason
to apprehend a meeting against the late draught.
Upon this apprehension we authorized the raising
a troop for the two counties of Northumberland
and Lancaster, and nowhere else. We wish ex-
ceedingly that we had a power of doing it, because
it would be the most effective protection to the
exposed counties which could be given them by
land. All we can venture to do is, if you can
Supplementary Manuscripts 337
make ase of a party of militia not exceeding the
number of a troop as mounted infantry, finding
their own horses, we may order forage to be found
them while on actual duty, but in every other
respect they must be considered as militia for
this purpose. I inclose you an order to Mr. McMillan,
deputy to Mr. Brown in your county. I am, etc., etc.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, April 14, 1781.
SIR,-As so much of the subject of Colonel Davies'
letter as relates to the conduct of the Continental
issuing commissary general in this State lies within
your powers of reformation altogether, I take the
liberty of handing on the letter to you. It is
very interesting to us that the provisions issued
for Continental use be issued to persons authorized
to give proper vouchers for debiting the continent,
and I entertain no doubt but that you will be so
kind as to have this branch of business so arranged.
In the meantime it might have an ill effect to
stop the issue at so early a day as the one proposed,
as within that space it might not perhaps be prac-
ticable to have the necessary arrangements made.
I also inclose you copies of letters just come to
hand from the President of Congress. I wish
this intelligence may not stop the Pennsylvania
Line, and leave General Greene to depend still on
this State and Maryland alone. As to ourselves,
VOL. XIX--22
338 Jefferson's Works
it is our wish to act on the defensive only in this
State, and not to stop a single regular till General
Greene should be made sufficiently superior to
his enemy. I am, etc., etc.
P. S. I think in conversation you mentioned
that you should store the spare arms and military
stores from General Muhlenberg's camp at Prince
George Court House. As the depredations of the
enemy on Potomac have stopped a considerable
part of the militia we had relied 'on to reinforce
General Muhlenberg, so that we are obliged to
call on other counties, he will probably continue
some time too weak to oppose the enemy. This
seems to render it essential that the stores above-
mentioned be withdrawn out of reach.
Prince George Court House being but four miles
from the river, I submit it to you whether, on
the prospect of our reinforcements being tardy,
a more interior situation would not be better.
TO THE COUNTY LIEUTENANTS OF FAUQUIER, LOUDOUN,
CAROLINE,ALBEMARLE, FLUVANNA, GOOCHLAND,
AND HENRICO.
RICHMOND, April 14, 1781.
SIR,-I am to desire you to send of your
militia under proper officers, with such good arms
as they have, and especially rifles, to rendezvous
at Williamsburg on the first day of May, and to
continue in service two months from the time of
Supplementary Manuscripts 339
their getting to the rendezvous. As circumstances
may render it necessary to change the rendezvous,
you will be pleased to order them by the way of
- where they will receive final orders on that head.
You are at liberty to deduct from the above
number any delinquents whom you may send
with them under sentence to serve six months
or any longer time for having failed to obey former
calls, or deserting from duty. Should any indi-
viduals you shall call for fail to attend at the time
you appoint for their meeting in your county, so
as to ascertain a deficiency in the above number,
you will be pleased immediately to call for that
deficiency from the next divisions, and will take
measures for sentencing and sending on such new
delinquents for six months, and so from time to
time on every call. I am, etc., etc.
P. S. to the letters to Fauquier and Loudoun.-
Your men now in the field below are to be discharged
the moment those above called for arrive there.
P. S. to the letter to Goochland.-You will also
be pleased to deduct from the above number the
forty men furnished by your county to guard
prisoners to Winchester.
P. S. to the letter to Henrico.-You will be
pleased to deduct from the above number so many
men as you have furnished within those two months
as guards, etc., for which we promised you a credit,
excepting those also who having been appointed
to guard the boats, deserted and left them.
340 Jefferson's Works
Fauquier............252 Loudoun..........407
Albemarle...........204 Fluvanria.........70
Goochland...........129 Henrico..........145
Caroline............245
TO THE HONORABLE RICHARD HENRY LEE.
RICHMOND, April 16, 1781.
SIR,-We are very sorry that it is out of our
power to furnish you with cartridge paper and
lead. The former article has been entirely exhausted
from our magazines by the Southern and Eastern
armies. Your express receives five hundred flints,
and should have had powder but that we think
it better you should purchase the two or three
barrels you propose and draw on the Executive
for payment, which shall be made.
The returns of military stores having been lost
we do not know, by recollection, that there are
either ball or grape-shot belonging to the public
at Fredericksburg : if there be and you can inform
me of it, and in the meantime prevail on the person
in whose possession it is to deliver a proper quantity
to you, I will send him the approbation of the Execu-
tive, or if you can buy we will pay for it. Our
last news from the south was of the sixth instant
when Lord Cornwallis was near Wilmington and
General Greene setting out on his march from
Deep river for South Carolina.
Phillips commands in Portsmouth, his whole
Supplementary Manuscripts 341
force twenty-five hundred. I think you may rely
from the intelligence we have had that no land
force from thence in the vessels are distressing at
Potomac.
P. S. The advertisement shall be published.
TO GENERAL MUHLENBERG.
RICHMOND, April 16, 1781.
SIR,-I have duly received the letter of the 7th
instant from Mr. Constable, written by command
from you, and am sorry to hear of your indisposition,
which I h.ope this will find you relieved from. I
expect three hundred and fifty men from Culpeper
have joined you before this date. They are to
continue till the 14th of June.
The militia from Frederick, Hampshire, Berkeley,
Shenandoah, Orange and Louisa ought now to be
coming in, and are to continue till the last of June
with a right to retain them a week longer to await
reliefs. We have, by letters sent by express yester-
day, called militia as follows : Fauquier 252,
Loudoun 407, Caroline 245, Albemarle 204, Flu-
vanna 70, Goochland 89, Henrico about 100, who
are required to be in the field May 1st, and to con-
tinue there till the last day of June or 7th of July,
if the reliefs should not arrive sooner. We are
thus endeavoring to get our militia to a fixed term
of two months in the field to be relieved all together
between this and the 1st of May.
342 Jefferson's Works
I cannot but apprehend dangers which are not
in our power to prevent. So slow are the militia
in moving that none newly called could be expected
sooner than those from Frederick, Hampshire,
Berkeley, Shenandoah, Orange and Louisa who
were called for March 27th.
The embarkation from New York under Sir
Henry Clinton is pretty certainly known to be
destined to take post at New Castle on Delaware.
I am, etc., etc.
TO JOHN PAGE.
IN CouNcIL, April 18, 1781.
DEAR SIR,-Your favor of the 13th desiring a
suspension of the act for raising new levies has
been duly received and laid before the board.
They think they cannot with any propriety sus-
pend an act after the terms are all past by which
it should have been carried into execution. It
would only answer the end of a remission of penalties,
which would be an abuse of the suspending power
given them by the latter act. The circumstances
which produced that law were that the militia
of half of the State had been called from counties
on the invasion on very distant and long services.
The neglect of the commissioners which had pre-
vented the assessment from being returned is a
reason which, as it did not enter the ideas of the
legislature, could by no means justify us in sus-
Supplementary Manuscripts 343
pending the law. Under these circumstances I
should suppose it best to take up the law as soon
as they shall have done their duty and get through
it as soon as you can. The men are exceedingly
wanting indeed, and if not produced generally
as we had a right to expect, it will be impossible
for us to enable General Greene to prevent his
antagonist from treading back his steps. I am,
etc. , etc.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
IN COUNCIL, April 20, 1781.
SIR,-I take the liberty of inclosing to you a letter
to Major-General Phillips with the determination
of the Board of War as to the British flag-vessel
with necessaries for the convention prisoners,
which I will ask the favor of you to forward by
flag. I presume it is necessary prudence to put
an officer and pilot of our own on board. This
has been the practice here and if you approve
of it you will be so good as to appoint an officer
to this service. The inclosed letter to Commodore
Barron the officer will take with him for the pur-
pose of obtaining a pilot. I inclose you copies
of letters which have this moment come to hand.
We can arm about two hundred militia here. The
rest must depend on the arms which have been
given in by the discharged militia. You will be
so good as to give orders on this subject, accom-
344 Jefferson's Works
modated to the several places of their rendezvous,
and determining whether the arms shall be brought
to the men, or they marched to the arms. I am,
etc. , etc.
TO MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.
RICHMOND, April 23, 1781.
SIR,--I had the pleasure yesterday to receive
your favor of the 17th instant, and am very happy
that the Southern States are to have the benefit
of your aid. On the 18th instant the enemy came
from Portsmouth, and (as in the following letter
to the President of Congress to the words Little
River on the 11th) we still consider his as the inter-
esting scene of action to us. As long as we can keep
him superior to his antagonist we have little to
fear in this country; whenever he shall be obliged
to retire before Lord Cornwallis and to bring him
also into this State our situation will become dan-
gerous. North as well as South Carolina, being
once in the hands of the enemy, may become the
instruments of our subjugation, and effect what
the enemy themselves cannot. The British force
may harass and distress us greatly, but the
Carolinas alone can subdue us. The militia of
North is very nearly as numerous as that of this
State. Out of that our enemy will be able to
raise great armies. We, therefore, think it .our
first interest to keep them under in that quarter,
Supplementary Manuscripts 345
considering the war in our own country but as a
secondary object. For this reason we mean to
send our new levies for the regular army to General
Greene as fast as they shall be raised, acting with
our militia on the defensive only, in this State.
I shall do myself the pleasure of communicating
further to you the future movements of the. enemy
with us, and occurrences to the southward also,
as far as they shall become known to me. I am,
etc. , etc.
TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF WAR.
IN COUNCIL, April 23, 1781.
SIR,-Colonel Wood has applied to us to take
measures for furnishing provisions and building
barracks for the convention prisoners at Winchester.
Neither of these can be effected without consider-
able sums of money, either advanced or to be
paid within some reasonable time, and I am sorry
to be obliged to inform you it is not in our power
to do either. Such are the calls on us for money
for the Southern army and for the army in our
county, that our efforts are exhausted in complying
with a part only of these, and I am firmly per-
suaded that could our advances and exertions
for the continent be stated to you, you would
be sensible that no call either for men, money
or provisions on account of these prisoners should
be made on us. While we were in tolerable quiet,
346 Jefferson's Works
and our neighbors under difficulties, we cheerfully
took on us the support and guard of these troops;
but when we have a war on our western, southern
and eastern quarters, which keeps our existence
in daily question. we cannot withdraw from that
a single exertion, nor deceive you by giving you
a hope-a hope of our being able to support these
prisoners in which we should surely fail. I am,
etc. , etc.
TO BARON STEUBEN.
RICHMOND, April 26, 1781.
SIR,-An officer from Cumberland, having called
on me this morning, to direct what should be done
with his unarmed men, I took the liberty by him,
of stating to you the order in which I thought
the militia should be discharged. I did this hastily
while he was waiting, and must now, on more
mature reflection, beg leave to correct in some
degree, what I then wrote, and to take up the whole
subject.
One-fourth of the militia of the counties of Fau-
quier, Loudoun, Caroline, Albemarle, Fluvanna,
Goochland, Henrico, Culpeper, Frederick, Hamp-
shire, Berkeley, Shenandoah, Orange and Louisa,
are still relied on for the service of May and June,
as I informed you in a letter of the 19th instant,
as is also Spotsylvania, which at the time of writing
that letter we expected would have been stopped
Supplementary Manuscripts 347
by the enemy's going up Potomac. These not
being come in, and the enemy approaching, we
called for the whole of Prince George, Dinwiddie,
Chesterfield, Powhatan, Henrico, Hanover, Gooch-
land and half of Cumberland and Amelia, to form
an opposition until the counties first named should
get in. Whenever, therefore, the business of dis-
charging may be commenced, the following is the
order in which we would wish discharges to be
given: First, Prince George, Dinwiddie, and Ches-
terfield, because exposed and their draught not
over; next, Powhatan, because somewhat exposed,
and their draught not over ; then Cumberland, Amelia
and Hanover, because their draught is not over
lastly, Henrico and Goochland, except the fourth-
men to be kept during the months of May and June.
I must beg the favor of you to consider this
as altogether superseding my first letter of this
date on the same subject. It is possible that a
change of position by the enemy, by exposing
counties now considered as safe, and rendering
those safe which are now exposed, may induce
a change in this arrangement. Should this happen,
I will take the liberty of noting it to you.
I am very sorry that we have discharged several
hundreds of the Hanover militia before we had
considered the subject, and settled the order in
which discharges should be given. As it has so
happened, we think it better not to recall them.
I am, etc., etc.
348 Jefferson's Works
TO MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.'
RICHMOND, May 6, 1781.
SIR,-Two persons have applied to me on behalf
of a certain John Allison, citizen, under confine-
ment, as they say, at camp for some offence.
Though perfectly satisfied that nothing will be
done under your order but what is right, and assur-
ing them of the same, yet I have not been able
to get clear of their solicitation without a letter
from you, asking a favor of a communication of
the case and proceedings before any punishment
should take place. I am sorry to add this to the
many troubles you have, but they have urged it
to me on the footing of duty so as to put it out
of my power to decline it. I have the favor, etc.,
etc.
TO HIS EXCELLENCY GENERAL WASHINGTON AND THE
HONORABLE VIRGINIA DELEGATES IN CONGRESS.
IN COUNCIL, May 10, 1781.
SIR,-The papers of the Executive having been
almost wholly lost in the visit which was made by
General Arnold to this place, we are endeavoring
to procure copies of as many of them as we can.
As the correspondence with (1)your Excellency is
among the most important, I am to solicit the
favor of you to permit the bearer hereof, Mr. Gran-
Congress.
Supplementary Manuscripts 349
ville Smith, to take copies of any letters with which
(1)you have been pleased to honor the Executive, or
have received from them previous to the commence-
ment of the present year. Besides the general
importance of preserving the memorial of public
events, it is natural for those who have had a share
in the administration to wish that under every
possible circumstance the records of their pro-
ceedings may guard them against misrepresentation
or mistake. Mr. Smith has been particularly chosen'
to execute this office because of his approved dis-
cretion, and we think ourselves safe in assuring
you that he may confidentially be relied on. I
have, etc., etc.
In the letter to the Delegates alter as in the
margin.
TO HIS ExCELLENCY PRESIDENT REID.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, May 22, 1781.
SIR,-Your Excellency's favor of the 6th instant
came to hand yesterday. The movement of the
enemy since I did myself the honor of writing to
your Excellency on the subject of our joint boundary,
having rendered it necessary, in the opinion of the
general assembly, for them to adjourn to this place ;
the Executive have, of course, come hither for a
time; this has placed us at a great distance from
Mr. Madison and Mr. Andrews, two of the com-
@#(1) They or you.@#
350 Jefferson's Works
missioners appointed for the purpose of running
the boundary. These gentlemen also unfortu-
nately reside in Washington, a place supposed to
be an object with the enemy, and I am not without
fear that this new circumstance will create difficulties
in the time of their attendance. I shall immedi-
ately dispatch an express to them with a communi-
cation of your Excellency's, and will, on receipt
of their answer, do myself again the honor of writing
to you. In the meantime as there remains three
weeks between this and the 12th of June, the day
proposed by your Excellency for the meeting of
the commissioners, as a part of this will be explained
before I can receive a letter from our commissioners,
and it is probable that they have to provide for
the safety of their family before their departure,
I will beg leave to consider it as your Excellency's
desire that as early a day as possible after that
may be fixed, and to take the liberty of communi-
cating the earliest at which they may be able to
attend, according to the answer I shall receive from
them. I have the honor to be, etc.
TO MAJOR RICHARD CLAIBORNE.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, May 23, 1781.
SIR,-Your letters of the 10th and 19th instants
came to hand yesterday. Experience has for some-
time past convinced the Council that, as the mode
of acquiring wagons, horses, etc., by impress is
Supplementary Manuscripts 351
the most irritating, so it is the most expensive
which. can be adopted. They, therefore, have meant
to discontinue impresses, and to have purchases
made whenever a delay can be permitted, and,
indeed, it is questionable, where necessity obliges
the public to € have an article on the spot, whether
any price which the owner would ask to part with
it voluntarily would not be less than appraisers
would rate it at.
In answer, therefore, to your letter, I can only
advise your procuring the necessaries required by
purchase. In a conversation I had with Mr. Lyne
I mentioned the necessity of paying your warrants
as quickly as possible. He was sensible of it, and
I dare say will pay it as soon as he has as much
money. I am, etc.
TO MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, May 29, 1781.
SIR,-I am honored with your favor of the 26th,
as I have been by one of the day before from Colonel
John Walker, who informed me that he wrote at
your request on the subject of horses. I have
now the pleasure to inclose to you eight impress
warrants, accompanied with resolutions of the
House of Delegates, which I obtained yesterday,
and to inform you that as soon as the other branch
of the legislature is convened, I believe they are
disposed to strengthen you with cavalry to any
352 Jefferson's Works
amount you think proper, and with good horses
as you shall think economy should induce you to
take. Stud horses and brood mares will be always
excepted, because to take them would be to rip
up the hen which laid the golden eggs.
I am sorry that it has not been in your power
to send me the county returns of militia. I assure
you that such returns weekly are indispensably
necessary to enable the Executive to keep militia
in the field. I did, however, on receiving infor-
mation from Colonel Walker that the enemy were
reinforced, call for one-fourth of the militia of
Washington, Montgomery, Botetourt, Rockbridge,
Augusta, Rockingham and Amherst, which (the
last excepted) are our best rifle counties. They
will rendezvous at Charlottesville and there expect
your orders.
Baron Steuben informed me also that only
two men were employed in repairing the damaged
arms. I am at a loss what to think on this subject,
as I have received assurance that one hundred a
week are repaired there, and that very shortly
they will be enabled to repair one hundred and
fifty a week. I will take immediate measures for
procuring a state of the repairs.
I sincerely and anxiously wish that you may be
enabled to prevent Lord Cornwallis from engaging
you till you shall be sufficiently reinforced and be
able to engage him on your own terms. This may
be the case when your superiority in cavalry shall
Supplementary Manuscripts 353
become decided, which I have the most sanguine
hopes the assembly will immediately provide for.
In the meantime the upper country will afford
you a secure retreat, presenting hills inaccessible
to horses approaching them and to this most dan-
gerous enemy, the rifleman.
I will take the liberty of recommending to you
that the two field officers to be appointed for valu-
ing the impressed horses be skilled in the business,
and that the same two may go through the whole
business, that all may be valued on the same
scale. Also that officers of mild and condescending
tempers and manners be employed, and particularly
instructed, while they prosecute their object,
steadily to use every soothing art possible.
A high tone of conduct will, as it did in a former
instance, revolt the people against the measure
altogether, and produce the suppression of it. I
have the honor to be, etc.
TO THE COUNTY LIEUTENANTS OF YORK, NEW KENT,
HANOVER, GLOUCESTER, KING AND QUEEN, KING
WILLIAM, MIDDLESEX, ESSEX, CAROLINE, SPOTSYL-
VANIA, LANCASTER, RICHMOND, KING GEORGE,
NORTHUMBERLAND, WESTMORELAND, STAFFORD,
PRINCE WILLIAM, FAIRFAX, LOUDOUN AND BERK-
ELEY.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, May 29, 1781.
SIR,-Information having been given me that a
considerable number of men have deserted from
vol xix-23
354 Jefferson's Works
the French army and navy in America, which the
commanding officers are very urgent to have appre-
hended, I must desire you to give orders at the
several ferries in your county, that all foreigners
offering to cross at' them, and having the appearance
of soldiers or seamen, be examined with great strict-
ness, and if there be good reason to believe them
to be deserters, that they then be delivered to such
persons as you shall appoint to guard them till
you can have an opportunity by militia or other-
wise, to send them, with a state of the circumstances
of suspicion, to the headquarters of Major-General
the Marquis Lafayette. I am, etc.
TO MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, May 30, 1781.
SIR,-Mr. Maury informs me there is reason to
expect from Lord Cornwallis a permission to export
to Charleston tobacco for our officers and soldiers
in captivity there. As you have been fully appraised
of what has been done heretofore, and a negotiation
for the relief of officers and soldiers of the Con-
tinetal Line, which you have honored by accepting
the command, seems agreeably reconciled to your
office and humanity. I will beg leave to inform
you that the State will provide as far as nine hun-
dred hogsheads of tobacco to be sent to Charleston,
for the above purpose, and to ask the favor of
you to negotiate with Lord Cornwallis for the
Supplementary Manuscripts 355
license. The distance of the Executive from his
Lordship is an additional reason for asking this
favor of you. Mr. Maury will lend any aid in his
power to promote this business, and is still recom-
mended as a proper person to attend the tobacco
to Charleston. I have the honor to be, etc.
TO MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, May 30, 1781.
SIR,-I inclosed to General Phillips a passport
for the British flag vessel, the General Reidseel,
and declined it to Captain Innes who called on me
for that purpose by order of Major-General Baron
Steuben, and was to have accompanied the vessel
to and from her port of destination.
The movements of the enemy and uncertainty
where General Phillips was then to be found delayed
his going till you had arrived. I think Baron
Steuben afterward informed me you would be so
kind as to send in the letter by a flag and an officer
to go with the vessel.
The inclosed letter from Mr. Miles King, written
at the request of Captain Gerlach, the flagmaster,
I take the liberty of transmitting to you by the person
who brought it, who is returning to Mr. King, and
will carry any line of information with which you
will be so kind as to favor him. I am, ete.
356 Jefferson's Works
TO THE SURVEYOR OF THE COUNTY OF MONONGALIA.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, June 3, 1781.
SIR,-It having become impracticable to settle
the boundary between this State and Pennsylvania
by astronomical observations during the present
season, it is referred by mutual consent till the
next year. In the meantime it is agreed that
Mason 's and Dixon 's line shall be extended twenty-
three miles with a surveyor's compass, only in the
usual manner, marking the trees very slightly. I
am, therefore, to desire you to undertake to do
this in connection with such person as shall be
appointed by his Excellency President Reid, and
report your work to the Executive. We shall
rely on your engaging chain-carriers, markers, etc.,
the expense of which shall be paid by the public.
I am, etc.
MANUSCRIPTS
FROM
THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
COLLECTION.
INTRODUCTORY NOTES.
It will be readily admitted, after due examination, that the
"Minutes" of the Board of Visitors of the University of Virginia,
under the rectorship of its father and founder, Thomas Jefferson, are
far more interesting than the mere reports of similar business meet-
ings. They contain an account of the actual growth of that famous
institution,-the practical suggestions for the creation of the buildings,
the plans and organization for the various academic departments, the
adoption of educational theories and innovations and, in short, the
establishment of a centre of learning as fulfilled to-day in the Univer-
sity of Virginia,
This fulfillment had been the heart's desire of its founder for
many years before his death and he wished to have its accomplish-
ment engraved in the epitaph on his tombstone, together with the
record of his services as the author of the Declaration of Indepen-
dence and the Statute for Religious Freedom in Virginia.
Associated with Jefferson on the Board of Visitors were James
Madison, James Monroe, Joseph C. Cabell, James Breckenridge, David
Watson and J. H. Cocke. All of them were intensely interested in
the erection of a State University along the lines conceived by Jeffer-
son. Joseph C. Cabell, then a member of the Virginia Senate,
was especially enthusiastic and supported in the legislature what
Jefferson planned in the privacy of his study. It was due to the
tireless efforts of Cabell, stimulated by Jefferson, that the State
government ultimately expended $300,000 for the construction of the
University and appropriated $15,000 a year toward its maintenance.
The correspondence between Jefferson and Cabell on the subject
of the early history of the University of Virginia w,as published in
an octavo volume in 1856, and is now very rare. Its appendix con-
tains some of the material given in the following pages, but the pro-
portion is small compared to the aggregate matter printed herewith
for the first time. The "Minutes" given in the present instance
embrace a period of nine years, the last entry having been dated
only three months before Jefferson's death.
360 Jefferson's Works
Not alone did Jefferson outline the process of education for his
University, but he also planned its architecture. He superintended
each detail of the construction, engaging workmen, buying bricks
and choosing the trees to bc used for timber. The institution was
opened during the month of March, 1825. The first year began with
forty students but this number had increased to almost two hun-
dred by the beginning of the second term. The University still
bears the impress of Jefferson's mind to the extent that it has no
president,-this position being filled by a chairman elected from among
the professors ; that it bestows no honors and no rewards, and that
attendance at religious services is entirely voluntary. Thus the stu-
dent is placed upon his principles as a citizen and upon his honor as a
man.
The " Minutes " presented in this collection are taken from a
time-worn book in the possession of the University of Virginia. Most
of the entries are in the firm handwriting of Jefferson-another proof
of his indefatigability as a penman. For access to the book and for
the privilege of reproducing its contents, credit is due to the authori-
ties of the University, and especially to Dr. Charles W. Kent.
AN EXACT TRANSCRIPT 361
OF THE
Minutes of the Board of Visitors of the University
of Virginia, during the Rectorship
of Thomas Jefferson.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the Central
College held at Charlottesville, on the 5th day of
May, 1817, on a call by three members, to wit :
John Hartwell Cocke, Joseph C. Cabell and Thomas
Jefferson. Present, James Monroe, James Madison,
John H. Cocke and Thomas Jefferson.
The records of the trustees of the Albermarle
Academy, in lieu of which the Central College is
established, were received from their secretary by
the hands of Alex. Garrett, one of the said trustees.
Resolved, that Valentine W. Southall be appointed
secretary to the Board, and that the records be
delivered to him.
The Board proceeded to the appointment of a
proctor, and the said Alexander Garrett was appoint-
ed, with a request that he will act as treasurer also
until a special appointment can be made.
362 Jefferson's Works
The Board being informed that at a meeting
which had been proposed for the 8th day of April
last at Charlottesville, and at which the three
members only, who called this present meeting had
attended, the said members had visited and examined
the different sites for the college within a convenient
distance around Charlottesville, had deemed the one
offered them by John Perry about a mile above
the town to be the most suitable, and offered on
the most reasonable terms, and had provisionally
authorized a purchase of certain parcels thereof
for the site of the said college and its appendages,
and the members now present having themselves
proceeded to the said grounds, examined them and
considered the terms of the said provisional pur-
chase, do now approve of the said grounds as a
site for the said college and its appendages, and
of the terms of purchase, which they hereby confirm
and ratify. And they accordingly authorize their
proctor above named to proceed to a regular con-
veyance thereof to himself and his successors in
trust for the said college.
The act establishing the Central College having
transferred to the same all the rights and claims
existing in the Albemarle Academy and its trustees,
and having in aid of the subscriptions and donations,
obtained or to be obtained, and of the proceeds
of the lottery authorized by law, specially empowered
this college, by its proper officers, to demand and
receive the moneys which arose from the sales of
Supplementary Manuscripts 363
the glebe lands of the parishes of St. Anne and
Fredericksville, or such part thereof as belongs to
the county of Albemarle or its citizens, in whatever
hands they may be, to be employed for the purposes
of this college, ordered that the proctor enquire
into the state of said property, and report the same
to this Board; and that in the meantime, he be
authorized to demand and receive so much of the
said moneys as may be requisite to pay for the land
purchased from the said John Perry, and to make
payment accordingly.
In view of a plan presented to the trustees of
the Albemarle Academy for erecting a distinct
pavilion or building for each separate professor-
ship, and for arranging these around a square,
each pavilion containing a school-room and two
apartments for the accommodation of the professor,
with reasonable conveniences, the Board deter-
mined that one of these pavilions shall now be
erected ; and they request the proctor, so soon as
the funds are at his command, to agree with proper
workmen for the building of one of stone or brick
below ground, and .of brick above, of substantial
work, of regular architecture, well executed, and
to be completed, if possible, during the ensuing
summer and winter ; that the lot for the said pavilions
be delineated on the ground of the breadth of
feet with two parallel sides of indefinite length,
and that the pavilion first to be erected be placed
on one of the lines so delineated, with its floor in
364 Jefferson's Works
such degree of elevation from the ground as may
correspond with the regular inclined plane to which
it may admit of being reduced hereafter.
And it is further resolved, that so far as the funds
may admit, the proctor be requested to proceed
to the erection of dormitories for the students
adjacent to the said pavilion, not exceeding ten
on each side, of brick, and of regular architecture,
according to the same plan proposed.
The Board, proceeding to consider the plan of
a lottery prepared by the trustees of the Albemarle
Academy, approve of the same, and resolve that
it be carried into execution and without delay, by
the proctor and by such agents as he shall appoint,
and that the moneys to be received for tickets by
those entrusted with the sale of them, be from
time to time, and at short periods, paid into the
hands of the proctor, and by him deposited in the
Bank of Virginia in Richmond, with which bank
it is thought expedient that an account should be
opened with him in trust for the Central College.
Resolved, that a subscription paper be prepared,
and placed in such hands as the proctor shall deem
will be most likely to promote it with energy and.
success, in which shall be different columns, to wit:
one for those who may prefer giving a donation in
gross, another for those who may be willing to
gi€re a certain sum annually for the term of four
years, and a third for donations in any other form.
And that the moneys subscribed be disposed of as
Supplementary Manuscripts 365
they are received by the proctor, in the manner
above prescribed for those received on the lottery.
Resolved, that Thomas Jefferson and John H.
Cocke be a committee on the part of the Visitors
with authority, jointly or severally, to advise and
sanction all plans and the application of moneys
for executing them which may be within the pur-
view and functions of the proctor for the time being.
TH. JEFFERSON,
JAMES MONROE,
JAMES MADISON,
J. H. COCKE.
May 5, 1817.
July 28, 1817.
At a called meeting of the Visitors of the Central
College, held at the lhouse of Mr. Madison in Orange,
Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, John Hartwell
Cocke, and Joseph C. Cabell, being present.
The plan of the first pavilion to be erected, and
the proceedings thereupon; having been stated and
agreed to,-
It is agreed that application be made to Dr.
Knox, of Baltimore, to accept the professorship of
languages, belles-lettres, rhetoric, history and geog-
raphy, and that an independent salary of four
hundred dollars, with a perquisite of twenty-five
dollars from each pupil, together with chambers
for his accommodation, be allowed him as a com-
' Montpelier, near Somerset, on the Southern Railway.
366 Jefferson's Works
pensation for his services, he finding the necessary
assistant ushers.
Alexander Garrett requesting to resign the office
of proctor, it is agreed that Nelson Barksdale of
the county of Albemarle, be appointed his successor.
It is also agreed that it be expedient to import
a stone-cutter from Italy, and that Mr. Jefferson
be authorized and requested to take requisite
measures to effect that object.
JAMES MADISON,
J. H. COCKE,
JOSEPH C. CABELL.,
TH. JEFFERSON.
At a meeting of the Visitors held at Charlottes-
ville 7th October, 1817 :
On information of the amount of the subscription
to the Central College, known to be made, and
others understood to be so, the Board resolves,
that the pavilion now erecting be completed as
heretofore directed, with the twenty dormitories
attached to it, and that two other pavilions be
contracted for and executed the next year with
the same number of dormitories to each ; that one
of these be appropriated to the professor of languages,
belles-lettres, rhetoric; oratory, history and geog-
raphy, one other to the professor of chemistry,
zoology, botany, anatomy ; and the third, until
otherwise wanted, for a boarding-house, to be kept
by some French family of good character, wherein
Supplementary Manuscripts 367
it is proposed that the boarders shall be permitted
to speak French only, with a view to their becoming
familiarized to conversation in that language.
The Board is of opinion that the ground for
these buildings should be previously reduced to a
plain, or to terraces as it shall be found to admit
with due regard to expense; that the pavilions be
correct in their architecture and execution, and
that where the family of a professor requires it,
two additional rooms shall be added for their
accommodation.
On information that the Reverend Mr. Knox,
formerly thought of for a professor of languages,
is withdrawn from business, the order of July 20
is rescinded, and it is resolved to offer, in the first
place, the professorship of chemistry, etc., to Dr.
Thos. Cooper of Pennsylvania, adding to it that
of law with a fixed salary of 1,000 dollars and tuition
fees of twenty dollars from each of his students,
to be paid by them; and to accede also to the
conditions stated in his letter of September 16 to
Th. Jefferson; and that he be advised with as to
a qualified professor of languages ; or such other
measures be taken to obtain one as shall be found
most advisable;, that the professor of languages
should be engaged to take place on the 1st of April,
and Dr. Cooper, as soon as a. pavilion for him can
be erected, or as he can otherwise accommodate
himself with lodgings.
Resolved, that every student shall be required
368 Jefferson's Works
to pay sixty dollars per annum tuition fees, of which
twenty dollars shall be paid to each professor he
attends, and the surplus thereof, if any, to remain
for the use of the college, and that fifteen dollars
be paid moreover for each dormitory by the students
occupying them.
Resolved, that any deficiency in the moneys paid
or payable by subscription or otherwise, in or
before April next, to pay for the pavilions and
dormitories, the first year 's salaries to the two
professors aforesaid and other necessary expenses,
shall be obtained, if practicable, by negotiations
with the banks on a pledge of the future instal-
ments of subscriptions, and of the college property
a.s security, and that of the latter instalment the
sum of $5,000 dollars shall be disposed of as shall
hereafter be directed, either to the Commonwealth
or the banks of some other safe moneyed institution,
or an interest sufficient to pay the annual salaries
of the two professors aforesaid forever,
Resolved, that the proctor be authorized to hire
laborers for levelling the ground and performing
.necessary services for the work or, other purposes.
JAMES MADISON,
JAMES MONROE,
DAVID WATSON,
J. H. COCKE,
JOS. C. CABELL,
TH. JEFFERSON.
October 7, 1817.
Supplementary Manuscripts 369
At a meeting of the Visitors, 8th October, 1817:
Certain letters from Dr. Thos. Cooper to Th.
Jefferson, dated September 17 and 19, received
since the meeting of yesterday, being communicated
to the Board of Visitors, and taken into consider-
ation with his former letter of September 16, they
are of opinion that it will be for the interest of the
College to modify the terms of agreement which.
might be generally proper, so as to accommodate
them to the particular circumstances of Dr. Cooper,
and to reconcile his interests to an acceptance of
the professorship before proposed to him. They,
therefore, resolve :
1. That the expenses of transporting his library
and collection of minerals to the College shall be
reimbursed to him.
2. That, however disposed they would be to
purchase for the College his collection of mineral
subjects, his philosophical and chemical apparatus,
the extent of their funds is as yet too little ascer-
tained to authorize engagements for them; but
that an interest of six per cent per annum on a
fair valuation should be paid for the use of them
in his own hand, until it can be seen that the other
more indispensable calls on the funds of the college
will leave them competent to the purchase.
And, ultimately, should nothing short of the
immediate purchase of these articles be sufficient,
then we are of opinion that their purchase be made,
and the ready money, if required, be obtained
vol. xix-24.
370 Jefferson's Works
from the bank as proposed in the resolution of
yesterday for other pecuniary deficiencies.
3. That the expense in articles consumed neces-
sarily in a course of chemical lectures shall be
defrayed by the College.
4. That the branches of science proposed for
Dr. Cooper be varied and accommodated in his
case, as it is expected they must be in others, to
the particular qualifications of the professor.
5. That the committee of superintendence of the
proceedings of the proctor in the execution of his
functions heretofore appointed, are authorized to
take such measures as they think best for providing
the necessary apartments for the use of the chemical
and mineralogical purposes.
Resolved, that Alexander Garrett be appointed
treasurer for the College.
JOSEPH C. CABELL,
J. H. COCKE,
JAMES MONROE,
TH. JEFFERSON, for
himself and for James Madison, who
assented to all the articles but was
obliged to depart before they could be
copied and signed.
October 8, 1817.
Supplementary Manuscripts 371
CHARLOTTESVILLE, May 11, 1818.
At a regular meeting of the Visitors of the Central
College, on 11th May, 1818, at which Th. Jefferson,
James Madison, John H. Cocke and Joseph C.
Cabell were present, it was agreed, that it being
uncertain whether Thos. Cooper would accept the
professorship of chemistry, in the event of his not
doing so, it would be expedient to procure a pro-
fessor of mathematics. It was also agreed to allow
the proctor of the College the sum of two hundred
dollars for the present year.
JAMES MADISON,
TH. JEFFERSON,
J. H. cocke,
JOSEPH C. CABELL.
May II, ISIS.
We, the subscribers, Visitors of the Central
College, having been specially called to meet on
the z 6th day of February, I 8 I g, and authorized by
the act of the legislature, now in session, for establish-
ing the University of Virginia, to continue the
exercise of our former functions, and to fulfill the
duties of our successors, Visitors of the said Uni-
versity, until their first actual meeting, have unani-
mously agreed on the following opinions and
proceedings :
That it is expedient 'that all the funds of the
University applicable to th.e services of the present
372 Jefferson's Works
year, which shall remain after meeting all the other
current and necessary purposes, shall be applied
to the providing additional buildings for the accom-
modation of the professors, and for dieting and
lodging the students of the University.
That the urgency of the advancing season, and
the importance of procuring workmen before they
become generally otherwise engaged for the season,
render it necessary for expediting the objects of
the University, that certain measures be forthwith
taken, which, if delayed until the first actual meet-
ing of our successors would materially retard those
objects.
That taking into view the balance remaining of
the funds of the last year, to wit : Of the proceeds
of the glebes, and of the first and second instal-
ments of subscriptions, after payment shall have
been made of the expenditures of the same year,
as also the third instalment of subscriptions payable
in April, 1820, and the public endowment of 15,000
dollars for the present year, engagements may be
entered into for building, in the approaching season,
two more pavilions for the professors, one hotel
for dieting the students, and as many additional
dormitories for their lodging, with the necessary
appendages, as the said funds shall be competent
to accomplish: that we approve of the propositions
for covering with tin sheets the pavilions and hotels
hereafter to be covered, and for bringing water to them
by wooden pipes from the neighboring high lands.
Supplementary Manuscripts 373
That Alexander Garrett, treasurer of the Central
College, be continued as the depository of the funds
of the institution, with authority to exercise the
powers and perform the duties of bursar of the
University until otherwise provided.
That to meet the immediate and pressing calls
for money, he be authorized to receive from the
treasury of the State the sum of fifteen hundred
dollars, in part of the public endowment of 15,000
dollars for the present year.
That a copy of these proceedings be laid before
the Governor and Council for the exercise of the
power of control committed to them by the same
act of the legislature, should they think proper to
exercise that power on any part of these proceedings.
TH. JEFFERSON,
JAMES MADISON,
J. H. cocke,
DAVID WATSON.
February 26, 1819.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University
of Virginia at the said University on Monday, the
29th day of March, 1819, being the day prescribed
by the Governor for their first meeting, James
Madison, Joseph C. Cabell, Chapman Johnson,
James Breckenridge, Robert Taylor, John H. Cocke
and Thomas Jefferson attended.
The Board proceeding to the duties prescribed
374 Jefferson's Works
to them by the act of the general assembly, insti-
tuted " An act establishing an University, " appointed
Thomas Jefferson their rector and Peter Minor their
secretary.
Resolved, that Alexander Garrett be appointed
bursar of the University, and that he be allowed
as a compensation for the duties of his said office
the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars a year;
and that the committee of superintendence hereafter
to be named, be authorized to engage Arthur
Brockenbrough as proctor of the University, with
an allowance not exceeding 2,000 dollars a year,
or if he cannot be engaged, then any other person
on such terms as they find necessary.
Resolved, that the acting proctor be instructed
to examine into the state of the property, real and
personal (moneys and credits excepted), formerly
appertaining to the Central College, and conveyed
to the president and directors of the Literary Fund,
that he, make an inventory of the same, as it
stands at this day, specifying the items whereof it
consists, and noticing the buildings and other
improvements already made and those which are
in progress, and that the late treasurer of the College,
now the bursar, be instructed to make a statement
of the funds, in money and credit, which apper-
tained to the said College, and were conveyed to
the said president and directors; specifying how
much of the said moneys have been received, how
much have been paid away, to whom, and€for
Supplementary Manuscripts 375
what purposes; what debts, to whom and for
what purposes, are due on settled accounts; to
whom and for what purposes debts are due on
unsettled accounts ; what part of the annual donation
by the Commonwealth has been received, and how
much thereof has been paid away, to whom, and
for what purposes ; all referring to the present date ;
and that the said inventory and statement be
returned to this Board to be preserved among its
records.
Resolved, that the proctor be required to provide
a common seal for the University, in the field of
which shall be engraved a Minerva enrobed in her
peplum and characteristic habiliments as inventress
and protectress of the arts, and that the exergue
be " University of Virginia " and at the bottom
the date of "1819."
It is the opinion of the Board that each of the
professors of the University be allowed a standing
salary of 1,500 dollars a year, and to receive also
thirty dollars annually from every student attending
him for instruction in any or all the branches
of science, which constitute the department of
which he is professor; and that he be allowed for
his accommodation the use of one of the pavilions
built, or to be built, clear of rent; it being under-
stood that a professor of one department, holding
temporarily another, may receive tuition fees from
students attending him in each department, but only
one salary, unless it be otherwise specially provided.
376 Jefferson 's Works
That the dormitories be rented to the students
at a rate of twenty dollars a year for each dormitory,
to be paid by the occupant or occupants; not
more than two being permitted to lodge in the
same dormitory.
Resolved, that a committee of advice, superin-
tendence and control be appointed to direct the
proceedings of the several agents of the Board
during the intervals of its sessions, and to call a
special meeting of the Board whenever, in their
opinion, the good of the institution indispensably
requires it, that notice of such call be addressed
by the committee themselves or by the secretary
on their order, to each member of the Board, and
be forwarded to their respective residences by mail;
be also published in the Richmond Enquirer, at
least fifteen days before the time appointed for
such meeting.
The Board hereby authorizes their bursar, with
the advice of a member of the committee of super-
intendence, to draw on the president and directors
of the Literary Fund, for the whole or any part
of the public donation charged on that fund, either
for immediate payment to those to whom moneys
may be due, or to deposit the same in the Bank
of Virginia, and thence, with the same advice,
countersigned by a member of the committee, to
draw it occasionally as may' be requisite.
Resolved, that the Board concurs in the opinion
of the Visitors of the Central College expressed in
Supplementary Manuscripts 377
their resolution of February 26, that it is expedient
that the funds of the University be diverted as
little as possible to the general engagement of the
professors required for the institution, until pro-
vision be made of buildings for their accommodation,
and for dieting and lodging the students ; and that
the measures adopted by them for the buildings
of the present year be approved and pursued.
That Dr. Thomas Cooper of Philadelphia, hereto-
fore appointed professor of chemistry and of law
for the Central College, be confirmed and appointed
for the University, as professor of chemistry, miner-
alogy and natural philosophy, and as professor of
law also, until the advance of the institution and
increase of the number of students shall render
necessary a separate appointment to the professor-
ship of law; that in addition to his permanent
salary of 1,500 dollars he shall receive such sums
during the first and second years 'as, with his salary
and his tuition fees, shall amount, in the whole, to not
less than. 3,500 dollars a year, to commence on the first
Monday of April of the ensuing year, 1820, or so
soon after as he shall arrive at the University.
That the expense of removing his philosophical
apparatus, his library and collection of minerals to
the University be reimbursed to him; that until he
shall have fifty students of chemistry, the expense
in articles consumed necessarily in the course of
chemical lectures be defrayed by the University,
not exceeding 250 dollars in any course.
378 Jefferson's Works
That the offer of his philosophical apparatus at
the price it cost him, be accepted, and that also of
2,500 specimens of his collection of minerals, labelled
and arranged in pasteboard cases, to be selected
from his whole collection, for the use of the Uni-
versity, at the price of fifty cents each, by John
Vaughan, Professor Patterson and Zaccheus Collins,
with a suspension of payment, however, of the
principal of these purchases until the more urgent
provisions for the accommodation of the professors
and students shall enable the school of the Uni-
versity to be opened generally, and with the pay-
ment, in the meantime, of interest at the rate of
six per centum per annum on their amount.
Considering the importance, and the difficulty
also at this time, of procuring American citizens,
of the first order of science in their respective lines,
to be professors in the University, the committee
of superintendence are hereby jointly instructed and
authorized, should any such offer, not to lose the
opportunity of securing them for the University,
by any provisional arrangements they can make
within the limits of the salary and tuition fees
before stated, and even with such reasonable accom-
modations as the case may require, suspending,
however, their actual engagement until a meeting
of the Visitors, and reserving to them the right of
approval or rejection. ,
Resolved, that the said committee be jointly
authorized to purchase, at a fair valuation or reason-
Supplementary Manuscripts 379
able price, of John Perry, if a fit occasion occur,
such portion of his land lying between the two
parcels heretofore purchased of him, as may con-
veniently unite the whole in one body; provided
the payment be deferred until it can be received
of the sixth instalment of subscriptions, or of the
public endowment for the third year of the insti-
tution:
The Board proceeded to the appointment of the
committee of superintendence, and John H. Cocke
and Thos. Jefferson were appointed, with authority,
jointly or severally, to direct the proceedings of the
agents of the institution, but jointly only to call
a special meeting of the Board.
Resolved, that the course of authenticating the
proceedings of the Board be by the signature of
the secretary, and counter-signature of the rector,
or if there be no secretary, or not present, then by
that of the rector alone.
And the Board adjourned.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector.
March 29, 1819.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University
of Virginia, at the said University on Monday, the
4th of October, I 8 I g, present, Thomas Jefferson,
Robert Taylor, James Madison, Chapman Johnson
and John Hartwell Cocke.
Resolved, that instead of the hotel, which had
380 Jefferson's Works
been directed to be built in .this present year by
the Visitors of the Central College at their meeting
of February 26, and approved by this Board on
the 29th of March last, the erection of an additional
pavilion by the committee of superintendence, is
approved; as also their engagements for two other
additional pavilions and dormitories, in anticipation
of the funds of the ensuing year.
Resolved, that, for the accomplishment of the
buildings commenced, and for all other lawful
expenses and disbursements on behalf of the Uni-
versity, the bursar be authorized, with the appro-
bation of a member of the committee of superin-
tendence, to draw on the President and directors
of the Literary Fund, for the whole, or any part
of the public donation charged on that fund, for
the ensuing year, 1820, so soon as the same shall
become payable.
It is the opinion of the Board that at least three
other pavilions, making ten with those in hand;
five hotels, and additional dormitories, in number
depending on that of the students who shall apply
for admission into the University, with their append-
ages, will be necessary for the proper accommodation
of the whole number of professors contemplated by
the legislature; and that the proctor, under the
direction of the committee of superintendence, be
required to make an estimate of the whole expense
of completing such buildings, distinguishing the
expense of each, and that such estimate should
Supplementary Manuscripts 381
accompany the report of this Board to the president
and directors of the Literary Fund.
Resolved, that as the stone in the neighborhood
of the University is not found capable of being
wrought into capitals for the columns of some of
the pavilions, and it may be necessary to procure
elsewhere proper stone or marble, and to have
capitals executed here or elsewhere, the proctor
be authorized to take such measures relative thereto,
and to make such arrangements for their execution, _
either by the two Italian artists engaged for that
purpose, or by others, or compromise with them,
as the committee of superintendence shall approve.
It appearing to the Board that the buildings and
the funds of the University will not be in a condi-
tion to justify the commencement of any of its
schools during the next spring, and that, therefore,
the duties of the professorships to which Dr. Thomas
Cooper was appointed must be deferred, the com-
mittee of superintendence is instructed to com-
municate that fact to Dr. Cooper, to arrange with
him the terms on which the delay may be made,
consistent with his convenience, and conformable
to an honorable fulfillment of our engagements
with him; and to report their proceedings to the
Board at their next meeting.
An inventory of the property conveyed by the
proctor of the Central College to the president
and directors of the Literary Fund, a statement
of the funds in money and credits of the said
382 Jefferson's Works
College, conveyed to the use of the University,
with the accounts of the disbursements, and of
the funds in hand, from the close of the preceding
accounts to the last day of September in this pre-
sent year, as furnished by the bursar and proctor,
and a draught of a report of the same, and of the
condition of the University, being proposed to the
Board, the same, after consideration and amend-
ment is agreed to in the following words, to wit:
"To the president and directors of the Literary
Fund :
"In obedience to the act of the legislature of
Virginia, entitled `An act establishing an Uni-
versity,' and enjoining on the rector and Visitors
thereof `to make report annually to the president
and directors of the Literary Fund (to be laid
before the legislature at their next succeeding
session), embracing a full account of the disburse-
ments, the funds on hand, and a general statement
of the conditions of the said University,' make the
following report :
"The Governor having been pleased, with the
advice of Council, to appoint James Breckenridge,
Joseph C. Cabell, John H. Cocke, Thomas Jefferson,
Chapman Johnson, James Madison and Robert
Taylor to be Visitors of the University of Virginia,
and prescribed for their first meeting the last Mon-
day in March of the present year, the Visitors so
appointed met accordingly at the site provided
for the Central College, and adopted by the legisla-
Supplementary Manuscripts 383
ture for that of the University, and proceeded
to the duties presented to them by the said act of
the legislature. They appointed Thomas Jefferson,
one of their body, to be rector; Alexander Garrett,
bursar; Arthur S. Brockenbrough, proctor, and
Peter Minor, their secretary. They examined into
the state of the property conveyed by the proctor
of the Central College to the president and directors
of the Literary Fund; had an inventory thereof
made by; the proctor, as it stood at that day, speci-
fying the items whereof it consisted, and noticing
the buildings and other improvements, made or in
progress, a copy of which inventory is hereto
annexed; and they required and received from the
late treasurer of the Central College, now bursar of
the University, a statement of the funds in money
and credits of the said College, conveyed for the use
of the said University, specifying the moneys
received, those paid away, to whom and for what
purposes; what debts, to whom, and for what
purposes were due, and what part of the annual
donation by the Commonwealth had been received;
a copy of which statement is hereto also annexed,
and to these is added an account of the disburse-
ments, and of the funds in hand prepared by the
bursar and proctor, from the close of the preceding
accounts to the last day of September of the present
year, as required by law, and also an estimate of
the probable cost of the buildings still necessary
for the accommodation of the whole number of
384 Jefferson's Works
professors contemplated by the legislature and of .
the students.
"The Visitors of the Central College, having been
in treaty with Dr. Thomas Cooper to be a professor
in the said college, those of the University con-
firmed his appointment as professor of chemistry,
mineralogy and natural philosophy; and agreed
with him for the purchase of his valuable collection
of minerals and of his philosophical apparatus.
The time, however, for the commencement of his
functions is not yet ultimately fixed, but they
deem it inexpedient to make any further appoint-
ments of professors until accommodations for their
reception and for that of the students shall be
provided ; and the rather, as the salaries of the
professors, whenever they commence, by absorbing
the funds of the University will leave little to be
employed in buildings for their accommodation.
They, therefore, concur in the opinion of the Visitors
of the Central College, expressed in their resolution
of February 26, that it was expedient that the funds
of the University should be diverted as little as
possible to the general employment of professors,
until provision should be made for their accom-
modation, and for boarding houses and lodgings
for the students, and for this purpose they gave
directions under which one of the pavilions and
fifteen of the dormitories, in the inventory men-
tioned, have been as nearly finished as is deemed
expedient until wanted for occupation; and the
Supplementary Manuscripts 385
other pavilion therein also mentioned will be com-
pleted this winter. Five others are more or less
advanced, each sufficient to accommodate one pro-
fessor, and about twenty other dormitories are in
progress. These will probably have their walls
completed and covered in during the present season,
but will not be otherwise finished but in the course
of another. And, in order to effect this much, the
Visitors have been obliged to enter into engage-
ments which will not only exhaust the funds of
the present year, but pledge those of the ensuing
one also. For two seasons being generally requisite
for the accomplishment of good buildings, the one
for their walls and covering, the other inner finish-
ings, had the commencement of these been post-
poned to the ensuing season, another year would
have been added to the delays of the institution.
"The Visitors would have had sincere pleasure in
announcing to the president and directors that
they should be able to open the University, in time
and manner, to meet the public expectations. But
the sums necessary for the preliminary measure of
providing accommodation will leave the funds of
the institution in a condition which does not enable
them to do this. If an earlier commencement,
however, should be deemed of importance enough
to justify an additional and competent aid from
the funds over which your Board presides, for
effecting the residuary buildings, the Visitors trust
that they could have in place, by the autumn or
vol. xix-25
386 Jefferson's Works
winter of the coming year, the complement of pro-
fessors contemplated by the law, and open the
institution at that epoch with the distinction
called for by the interests and character of the
State. And were they to indulge their own judg-
ment, it would be that the annual tribute we are
paying to other countries for the education of our
youth, the retention of that sum at home, and
receipt of a greater from abroad, which might
flow to an University on an approved scale, would
make it a gainful employment of the money advanced,
were even dollars and cents to mingle themselves
with the consideration of an higher order urging
the accomplishment of this institution. But this
urgency they leave with confidence, as in duty
bound, to the wiser judgment of the legislature,
with assurance, on the part of the Visitors that,
whether with the present, or additional funds,
they will omit nothing which may hasten the
desirable moment when the youth of their country
may find at home those resources of instruction
which they have so long been in the habit of seek-
ing elsewhere, and when, by a sound education, a
wholesome direction may be given to public opinion,
the safest guide and guardian of the public morals
and welfare, the arbitress, in every nation, of its
destinies to happiness or wretchedness, and the
source to which, as either pure or corrupted, the
changes of conditions in every country on earth
may be traced and ascribed."
Supplementary Manuscripts 387
And the rector is instructed to authenticate and
transmit the same, with the documents therein
referred to, to the president and directors of the
Literary Fund, according to law.
And the Board adjourns itself indefinitely.
TH. JEFFERSON, ReCtOr.
October 4, 1819.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University
of. Virginia at the said University, on Monday, the
3d of April, 1820, present Thomas Jefferson, James
Madison, James Breckenridge, John H. Cocke and
.Joseph C. Cabell.
Resolved, that the Visitors of the University
accede to the loan of $40,000 authorized by a
resolution of the president and directors of the
Literary Fund of 23d March, 1820.
Resolved, that the aforesaid sum of $40,000
shall be applied as follows, viz., first, to the pay-
ments of the debts of the University. Second,
to the completion of the buildings now on hand.
Resolved, that the balance that may remain of
the $40,000, after accomplishing the two objects
last specified, together with the annuity of the
year 1821, after deducting the interest that will
be due on the loan from the Literary Fund, be
applied toward the erection of three other pavilions
and their accessory€ dormitories.
Resolved, that the committee of superintendence
388 Jefferson's Works
be authorized to borrow of the president and directors
of the Literary Fund, or should that be imprac-
ticable, from any other quarter, the further sum
of $20,000.
Resolved, that the aforesaid sum of $20,000,
together with. any balance of the preceding sums
as may remain on hand, and the annuity of the
year 1822, after deducting the sum due for interest
on moneys borrowed, be applied towards the erection
of buildings of accommodation on the eastern
back street.
Resolved, that the committee of superintendence
be authorized and required to propose to the presi-
dent and directors of the Literary Fund a post-
ponement for one year of the period of commence-
ment of the installments of the principal borrowed
of the said Fund.
Resolved, that in the event of the agreement
of the president and directors of the Literary Fund
to the postponement of the. installments of principal
as last mentioned, any balance that may remain
on hand of the aforesaid sums of money, together
with the annuity of the year 1822, after deducting
the sums due for interest, be applied towards the
erection of buildings of accommodation on the
western back street. .
Resolved, that Thomas Jefferson be appointed
rector of the University for the ensuing four years.
Resolved, that Thomas Jefferson and John H.
Cocke be appointed a committee of superintendence.
Supplementary Manuscripts 389
Resolved, that the committee of superintendence
be authorized to communicate to Doctor Thomas
Cooper the delay and uncertainty now unavoidable
in regard to the time of opening the University,
and to make such change in the contracts with
him as to them may seem advisable.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector.
April 3 , 1820.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University of
Virginia, at the said University, on Monday, ad of
October, 1820, present, Thomas Jefferson, James
Madison, Robert B. Taylor, John H. Cocke, and
Joseph C. Cabell ;
The Board proceeded to the consideration of the
annual report, and not having time to go through
with the same, adjourned to Tuesday, 3d October.
At an adjourned meeting of the Visitors of the
University of Virginia, held on 3d October, 1820,
present, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Robert
B. Taylor, John H. Cocke and Joseph C. Cabell;
The Board approved the arrangement made by
the committee of superintendence relative to the
annulment of the contract with Doctor Thomas
Cooper.
Resolved, that from and after the first day of
October, 1820, the compensation to the bursar of
390 Jefferson's Works
the University for his services shall be at the rate
of one per cent on the amount of disbursements.
Resolved, that Joseph C. Cabell be and he is
hereby desired and authorized to examine and
verify the accounts of the preceding year, not
already examined and verified.
Resolved, that the committee of superintend-
ence be authorized to enter into negotiations with
the following persons, with the view of engaging
them as professors of the University; viz: Mr.
Bowditch of Salem and Mr. Tichenor of Boston.
Resolved, that in the negotiations with Mr. Bow-
ditch and Mr. Tichenor, the committee be authorized
to offer the compensation hereafter specified, viz:
. Apartments.
. A salary of $2,000 per annum.
. A fee of $10 for each student engaged to
attend the lectures of the professor.
. If the aggregate amount of the salary and of
the fees of tuition should fall short of $2,500, in
either the first, second or third year, the deficiency
to be paid out the funds of the University.
The following report was agreed to:
To the president and directors of the Literary
Fund :
In obedience to the act of the general assembly
of Virginia, requiring that the rector and Visitors
of the University of Virginia should make report
annually to the president and directors of the
Literary Fund (to be laid before the legislature at
Supplementary Manuscripts 391
their next succeeding session), embracing a full
account of the disbursements, the funds on hand,
and a general statement of the condition of the
said University, the said Visitors make the follow-
ing report :
The general assembly at their last session of
1819-20 having passed, an act authoring the said
Visitors, for the purpose of finishing the buildings
of the University, to borrow the sum of 60,000
dollars, and to pledge for repayment of the said
sum and interest, any part of the annual appro-
priation of 15,000 dollars heretofore made by law,
the Board of Visitors at their semi-annual meeting
of April last proceeded to the consideration of the
said act, and of the authorities therein permitted
to them. They were of opinion, in the first place,
that it would be most expedient to complete all
the buildings necessary for the accommodation of
the professors and students before opening the
institution, as the maintenance of that, when
opened, by absorbing all its funds would leave
nothing to complete that might yet be requisite
for the full establishment called for by law.
, On view of the account rendered by the bursar
and proctor, they found that with the aid of the
loan authorized (if the commencement of its instal-
ments for repayment could be suspended four
years), and of their annuity during the same time,
they might accomplish the whole of the buildings
of accommodation for the professors and students,
392 Jefferson's Works
according to the estimates heretofore made of
their probable cost, of which the following state-
ment presents a summary view:
1820, Apr. The existing debts are.....................$10,000
To complete the 2 pavilions and 31 dormi-
tories, on ha.d..............................18,000
To build 3 more pavilions and 24 dormitories
to complete thelawn..........................27,000
To build 3 Hotels and 29 dormitories complet-
ing the east backstreet.......................19,000
1821. To build 2 Hotels and Proctor's house and
25 dormitories completing west back street......19,000
$93,000
Means.
1820, Apr. Loan from Literary Fund of...................40,000
1821, Jan. 1. Annuity of 15,000 D.-2,400 int. of 40,000
D.......................................................12,600
Additional loan of......................................20,000
1822, Jan. 1. Annuity of 15,000 D.-3,600 D. int. of
60,000,..................................11,400
84,000
1823 Jan. 1. Annuity of 15,000 D.-3,600 D.int. of
60,000
11,400
95,400
They, therefore, proceeded to negotiate a loan of
40,000 dollars from the president and directors of
the Literary Fund, reimbursable by installments of
14,244 dollars a year, beginning on the -- day of
April, 1824. And afterwards a second loan of
20,000 dollars, reimbursable by like annual instal-
ments, commencing from the day when the others
should end.
On this view of our resources the Board proceeded
t.o authorize their proctor to enter into contracts
Supplementary Manuscripts 393
for the completion of the buildings already begun,
and for the erection of those still wanting, so as
to provide ;.n the whole, ten pavilions for the pro-
fessors required by law, five hotels for dieting the
students and a sixth for the use of the proctor,
with 104 dormitories; sufficient for lodging 208
students; and they instructed him 'to make, in
his contracts, effectual provision that the whole
shall be completed in the autumn of the ensuing
year, 1821. At that time, therefore, the buildings
of accommodation for the professors and students
are expected to be all ready for their reception, and
the institution might then be opened, but that
the remaining engagements for the building and
the reimbursement of the sums borrowed from the
Literary Fund will require the whole revenue of
the University for seven years to come, that is to
say until the -- day of April, 1828.
In the statement of expenditures and means of
the University it will be perceived that we have
not taken the private subscriptions into account.
Of these 2,079.33 dollars of the first installment,
3,914.13 dollars of the second, and 8,217.09 of, the
third are still due ; and the last, amounting to
10,666.50, will become due on the first day of
April next. But of these some loss will be occasioned
by the distresses of the times; and the residue,
from the same cause, will be so tardy and uncertain
in the times of its receipt, that the Visitors have
not thought it safe to found on it any stipulations
394 Jefferson's Works
requiring punctuality in their fulfillment. They
have thought it more advisable to reserve it as a
supplementary and contingent fund, to aid the
general revenue, as it shall be received, and to meet
casualties unforeseen, errors of estimate, and
expenses other than those of mere building.
In the report of the commissioners who met at
Rockfish gap on the 1st day of August, 1818, it
was stated that "a building of somewhat more
size in the middle of the grounds may be called
for in time, in which may be rooms for religious
worship under such impartial regulations as the
Visitors shall prescribe, for public examinations,
for a library, for the schools of music, drawing and
other associated purposes. " The expenses of this
building are not embraced in the estimates herein-
before stated. Its cost will probably be of about
40,000 dollars, and its want will be felt as soon as the
University shall open. But this building is beyond
the reach of the present funds; nor are these
indeed adequate to the maintenance of the insti-
tution on the full scale enacted by the legislature.
That body, aware that professors of desirable
eminence could not be expected to relinquish the
situations in which they might be found for others,
new, untried and unknown, without a certainty
of adequate compensation, confided to the discre-
tion of the Visitors, the salaries which should be
stipulated to the professors first employed. But
the annuity heretofore appropriated to the main-
Supplementary Manuscripts 395
tenance of the University cannot furnish sufficient
inducement to ten professors, of high degree each
in his respective line of science; and yet, to employ
inferior persons would be to stand where we are
in science, unavailed of the higher advances already
made elsewhere, and of the advantages contem-
plated by the statute under which we act.
If the legislature shall be of opinion that the
annuity already apportioned to the establishment
and maintenance of an institution for instruction
in all the useful sciences, is its proper part of the
whole fund, the Visitors will faithfully see that it
shall be punctually applied to the remaining engage-
ments for the buildings, and to the reimbursement
of the extra sum lately received from the general
fund: that during the term of its exclusive appli-
cation to these objects, due care shall be taken to
preserve the buildings erected from ruin or injury,
and at the end of' that term, they will provide for
opening the institution in the partial degree to
which its present annuity shall be adequate. If,
on the ether hand, the legislature shall be of opinion
that the sums so advanced in the name of a loan,
from the general fund of education, were legiti-
mately applicable to the purposes of an University;
that its early commencement will promote the
public good by offering to our youth, now ready
and waiting for it, an early and near resource for
instruction, and, by arresting the heavy tribute
we are annually paying to other states and countries
396 Jefferson's Works
for the article of education, and shall think proper
to liberate the present annuity from its engage-
ments, the Visitors trust it will be in their power
by the autumn of the ensuing year, 1821, to engage
and bring into place that portion of the professors
designated by the law, to which the present annuity
may be found competent ; or, by the same epoch.,
to carry into full execution the whole objects of the
law, if an enlargement be made of its participation
in the general fund, adequate to the full establish-
ment contemplated by the law.
The accounts, receipts, disbursements and funds
on hand for the year ending with the present date,
as rendered by the bursar and proctor of the Uni-
versity, are given with this report, as is required by
law.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector.
OCTOBER 3, 1820.
And the
Board adjourned without day.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector.
1820, April 1. A special meeting of the Visitors
of the University having been called in the month
of February, to be held on this day, April 1, signed
by Th. Jefferson, James Madison, Chapman Johnson,
Joseph C. Cabell, James Breckenridge and Robert
Taylor, and duly notified to John H. Cocke to whom
no opportunity had occurred of presenting it for
his signature, the said Th. Jefferson and James
Supplementary Manuscripts 397
Madison attended accordingly, but not constituting
a quorum, no proceedings took place.
TH. JEFFERSON, ReCtOr.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University
of Virginia at the said University, on Monday the 2d
of April 1821, present, Th. Jefferson, rector; James
Breckenridge, Chapman Johnson and James Madison.
A letter having been received by the rector from
Thomas Appleton, of Leghorn, stating the prices
at which the Ionic and Corinthian capitals wanting
for the pavilions of the University may be furnished
there in marble, and these prices appearing to be
much lower than they would cost if made here in
stone, resolved, that it be an instruction to the
committee of superintendence to procure the said
capitals in marble from Italy.
Resolved, as the opinion of this Board, that it is
expedient to procure the loan of 60,000 dollars,
or so much thereof as may be necessary, as author-
ized by the late act of the general assembly, con-
cerning the University of Virginia, and that the
committee of superintendence be instructed to
negotiate the same with the president and directors
of the Literary Fund of preference, or if not to be
obtained from them, then with others, according
to the authorities of the said act.
Resolved, that it is expedient to proceed with
the building of the library on the plan submitted
to the Board: provided the funds of the Univer-
398 Jefferson's Works
sity be adequate to the completion of the buildings
already begun, and to the building the western
range of hotels and dormitories, and be also adequate
to the completion of the library so far as to render
the building secure and fit for use ; and that it be
an instruction to the committee of superintendence
to ascertain as accurately as may be the state of
accounts under the contracts already made, the
expenses of completing the buildings begun and
contemplated. And not to enter into contracts
for the library until they are fully satisfied that,
without interfering with the finishing of all the
pavilions, hotels and dormitories, begun and to
be €begun, they have funds sufficient to put the
library in the condition above described.
And the Board adjourns without day.
TH. JEFFERSON, RECTOR.
OCTOBER 2, 1820.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University
of Virginia, by special call, on Thursday the 29th
of November, 1821, at the University, two mem-
bers only attending, to wit: Thomas Jefferson and
Chapman Johnson, they adjourned to the next day.
November 30, present, Thomas Jefferson, Chapman
Johnson, James Madison and John Hartwell Cocke.
The Board being informed that of the 60,000
dollars permitted to be borrowed from the Literary
Fund by the act of the last general assembly, the
Supplementary Manuscripts 399
sum of 29,100 dollars only has as yet been obtained,
and that there is uncertainty as to the time when
the balance may be obtained, they deem it expedient
that the annuity of 15,000 dollars, receivable on
the 1st of January next, be applied to the accom-
plishment of the buildings and other current purposes,
in the first place, an d that, should further sums be
wanted before the receipt of the balance of the said
loan, the committee of superintendence be authorized
to borrow from the bank to the amount of that bal-
ance, to be replaced by the said balance when received.
Resolved, that the superintending committee be
authorized to have an engraving made of the
ground-plat of the buildings of the University
including the library, and so many copies struck
off for sale as they shall think proper, and also to
engage a good painter to draw a perspective view
of the upper level of buildings, to be engraved,
yielding to him, for his trouble, the patent right,
and paying his reasonable expenses coming, staying
and returning, should it be required.
A proposition having been received to join with
other seminaries in a petition of Congress, for a
repeal of the duty on imported books, resolved,
that this Board will concur in such a petition and
a form being prepared and approved, arid a form
also of a letter to our senators and representatives
in Congress requesting them to present and advocate
the said petition, the rector is desired to authen-
ticate and forward the same.
400 Jefferson's Works
A form of a report, as annually required to be
made to the president and directors of the Literary
Fund, on the funds and condition of the University,
was then proposed, amended and agreed to in the
following words :
To the president and directors of the Literary
Fund :
In obedience to the act of the general assembly
of Virginia, requiring that the rector and Visitors
of the University of Virginia shall make report
annually to the president and directors of the
Literary Fund (to be laid before the legislature
at their next succeeding session), embracing a
full account of the disbursements, the funds on hand,
and a general statement of the condition of the
said University, the said rector and Visitors make
the following report :
At their meeting in April last, the attention of
the Visitors was first drawn to the consideration
of the act of the,late general assembly, which
authorized the Literary Board to lend, for the
use of the University, a further sum of 60,000
dollars from such moneys as should thereafter
come to their hands. And taking such view as
could then be obtained of the expenses already
incurred for the lands, buildings and accessory
purposes, for the accommodation of the professors
and students of the University, so far as already
completed, or in a state of advancement, and
the further expenses still to be incurred necessarily
Supplementary Manuscripts 401
tc complete those accommodations, they concluded
it to be for the benefit of the institution to obtain
the €said loan. Application was accordingly made
to the Literary Board, a sum of 29,100 dollars
was obtained, and the further sum of 30,900 dollars
is expected so soon as the receipts of that Board.
shall enable them to furnish it.
In the meantime the Board deemed it incumbent
to obtain as early as possible a' correct statement
of the actual cost of what was already done, and
a probable one of that still to be done, estimated
according to the experience now obtained. They,
therefore, instructed their proctor to apply himself
assiduously to the completion of the buildings
generally, to a settlement of all accounts of the
actual cost of those finished, and an estimate,
according to that, of what would be the cost of
those still to be finished. The completion of the
buildings of accommodation, which are in four
rows of about 600 feet in length each, as may be
seen by the plans accompanying this report, has
been pressed with as much effect as could be
expected; insomuch that there are now complete,
and in readiness for occupation, six pavilions for
the accommodation of the professors, eighty-two
dormitories for that of the students, and two hotels
for their dieting; and the others will all be com-
pleted in the ensuing summer. The accounts for
the construction of those already finished have
been actually settled; and the probable cost of
VOL. XIX-26
402 Jefferson's Works
the unfinished has been estimated according to the
rates which the others have been found to cost.
The following is a summary view of the actual
expenditures of the institution from the beginning,
of those yet to be incurred to its completion, and
of the funds received and still receivable, as nearly
as can at present be stated:
6 Pavilions finished have cost,............$52,713.76
17 Capitals for them expected from Italy
are to cost by contract,...................2,052.06
2 Hotels finished have cost..................8,515.82
82 Dormitories finished have cost,...........50,645.74
$113,927.32
The following are nearly finished
and are estimated at the rates the
others have cost, or at prices actually
contracted for:
4 Pavilions...........................33,563.15
4 Hotels..............................16,000.00
2 Dormitories.........................11,952.21 61,515.36
Back yards and gardens...........................1,500.00
Making thc whole cost of the four rows
of buildings of accommodation...................$176,942.68
The purchase of 245.5 acres of land and
the buildings on them, past compen-
sations to thc bursar and proctor, hire
and maintenance of laborers, and all
other accessory and contingent ex-
penses...........................................24,607.77
Making a total for the lands, buildings,
etc. complete...................................201,550.45
To which add for interest€on the loans,
calculated to December 31, 1821...................6,160.25
$207,7I0.70
Supplementary Manuscripts 403
The funds applied and applicable to these
expenditures are:
The sale of glebe lands,.........................3,104.09
A State certificate, No. 32, bearing in
terest.............................................176.77
Annuities of 1819, '20, '21.....................45,000.00
Loan of 1820....................................60,000.00
Loan of 1821....................................60,000.00
Subscriptions received to November 27, 1821.....24,676.37 1/2
Balance of subscriptions (due 19,668.91
of which suppose 3,000 lost),...................16,668.95
$209,626.18
From this would result a small surplus of.......$1,915.48
$207,710.70
According to the proctor's accounts for the
present year (which, with the bursar's, are herewith
enclosed, and) which contain minuter specifications
of the expenditures.
To finish and pay for the whole of the build-
ings of accommodation not yet finished and
paid for will require a further sum to be
placed at his command of,....................... 53,494.79
The resources for this are:
The balance of the loan of '21, still to be
received,......................................30,900.00
The balance stillÇ due ,of subscription moneys,
separate,......................................16,668.95
Cash in the banks undrawn ,as per,bursar's
account,........................................2,301.23
Dollars in the bursar's, hands, as, per, his
account...........................................447.84
State certificate, No. 32.........................176.77
From which would result a deficit to ,be sup-
plied from the annuity of,................... 3,000.00
$53,494.79
404 Jefferson's Works
So far then, as can at present be seen (and we
are now so near the end of this work that there
is room for little error) the funds received and
receivable will, within a small fraction, pay for
the lands purchased, for the whole system of build-
ings of accommodation, and all accessory expenses.
The 'building for the library, comprehending
halls indispensably necessary for other public pur-
poses, and estimated by the proctor, according to
past experiences, to cost 46,847 dollars will remain
to be erected from the same fund of the annuity.
The anticipations of this by loans, for expediting
the other buildings, will have weakened it by
nearly one-half its amount by the sums of interest
to which it is subject, and will consequently retard
the commencement of its applications to the dis-
charge of the sums borrowed by annual instal-
ments, if such should continue to be the will of the
legislature.
The buildings of accommodation will be finished,
as before observed, in the ensuing summer, and
will constitute the whole establishment, except
that of the library. With the close of these works
the accounts of their costs will also be closed.
These will be first examined by a committee of the
Visitors that nothing may enter into them not
sanctioned by the Board. They will then be
finally submitted to the accountant of the Literary
Board, for the assurance of the public that the
moneys have been correctly and faithfully applied.
Supplementary Manuscripts 405
In the course of these works, as is unavoidable,
perhaps, generally in those of considerable magni-
tude, there have occurred instances of moneys paid,
not in direct furtherance of the legitimate object.
The first was the case of a contract by the Visitors
of the Central College for a professor, while acting
for that as a private establishment, and under an
expectation of its immediate commencement. But
that institution being afterwards merged in this
of the University, and the enlargement of the
plan occasioning that of the time of its commence-
ment also, it became important that that contract
should be rescinded. This was done on a just and
reasonable compromise and indemnification of 15,000
dollars. Another instance was the importation of
a fine artist for carving the capitals of the more
difficult orders of the buildings. The few persons
in this country capable of that work were able
to obtain elsewhere such high prices for their skill
and labor that we believed it would be economy
to procure an artist from some country where
skill is more abundant, and labor cheap. We did
so. But on trial the stone we had counted on in
the neighborhood of the University was found
totally unsusceptible of delicate work; and some
from a very distant, but the nearest other quarry
known, besides a heavy expense attending its
transportation, was extremely tedious to work,
and believed not proof against the influences of
the weather. In the meantime we had inquired
406 Jefferson's Works
and l.earned that the same capitals could be furnished
in Italy, and delivered in our own ports for a half,
or third, of the price, in marble, which they would
have cost us here in doubtful stone. We arrested
the work here, therefore, and compromised with
our artist at the expense of his past wages, his
board and passage hither, amounting to 1,390
dollars, 5 6 cents. These are the only instances of
false expense which have occurred within our
knowledge.
The two pavilions and their adjacent dormitories,
begun and considerably advanced by the authorities
of the Central College, were contracted for by them,
when all things were at their most inflated paper
prices, and, therefore, have been of extraordinary
cost. But all the buildings since done on the
more enlarged scale of the University, have been
at prices of from twenty-five to fifty per cent reduc-
tion; and it is confidently believed that, with that
exception, no considerable system of building,
within the United States has been done on cheaper
terms, nor more correctly, faithfully, or solidly
executed, according to the nature of the materials
used.
That the style or scale of the buildings should
have met the approbation of every individual .
judgment was impossible from the various structure
of various minds. Whether it has satisfied the
general judgment is not known to us. No pre-
vious expression of that was manifested but in
Supplementary Manuscripts 407
the injunctions of the law to provide for the accom-
modation of ten professors, and a competent num-
ber of students, ,and by the subsequent enact-
ments, implying an approbation of the plan reported
by the original commissioners, on the requisition
of the law constituting them, which plan was
exactly that now carried into execution. We had,
therefore, no supplementary guide but our own
judgments, which we have exercised conscientiously
in adopting a scale and style of building believed
to be proportioned to the respectability, the means
and the wants of our country, and such as will
be approved in any future condition it may attain.
We owed to it to do, not what was to perish with
ourselves, but what would remain, be respected
and preserved through other ages. And we fondly
hope that the instruction which may flow from
this institution, kindly cherished, by advancing the
minds of our youth with the growing science of
the times, and elevating the views of our citizens
generally to the practice of the social duties, and
the functions of self government, may ensure to
our country the reputation, the safety and pros-
perity, and all the other blessings which experience
proves to result from the cultivation and improve-
ment of the general mind. And, without going
into the monitory history of the ancient world
in all its quarters, and at all its periods, that of
the soil on which we live and of its occupants,
indigenous and immigrant, teaches the awful lesson,
408 Jefferson's Works
that no nation is permitted to live in ignorance
with impunity.
And the Board adjourned without day.
TH. JEFFERSON, ReCtOr.
November 29, 1821.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University of
Virginia at said University, on Monday, the 1st of
April, 1822; present, Thomas Jefferson, rector, Joseph
C. Cabell and John Hartwell Cocke, who, not being
sufficient to constitute a quorum for business, they
adjourned' indefinitely.
TH. JEFFERSON, ReCtOr.
April I, 1822.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University
of Virginia at the said University, on Monday, the
7th of October, 1822.
Present, Thomas Jefferson, rector, James Brecken-
ridge, Joseph C. Cabell, John H. Cocke and James
Madison.
Resolved, that the proctor be instructed to enter
into conferences with such skillful and responsible
undertakers as he would approve, for the building
of the library, on the plan heretofore proposed,
and now in his possession, and to procure from
them declarations of the smallest sums for which
they will undertake the different portions of the
Supplementary Manuscripts 409
work of the said building; each portion to be done
as well, in materials, manner and sufficiency, as
the best of the same kind of work already done in
the preceding buildings, or as well and sufficiently
as shall now be agreed on; that (omitting the
capitals of the columns, which would be procured
elsewhere) the several other portions being speci-
fied under such general heads and details as
may be convenient to show the cost of each and
by whom undertaken, fixing also the time within
which each portion shall be completed: and
that his agreements be provisional only, and
subject to the future acceptance or refusal of the
Visitors.
Resolved, that the committee of superintendence
be authorized to employ a collector to proceed to
the collection of the moneys still due on subscrip-
tions, under such instruction and agreement as
they shall approve.
Resolved, that the examination and report of
the account of the bursar of the University of
Virginia, from the 1st day of October, 1820, to
the 3 I st day of March, 1821, and from the 3 I st
day of March, 1821, to the 27th day of November,
1821, made by John H. Cocke, at the request of
the rector, by his letter of the 1st of December,
1821, be hereby ratified as done under authority
of this Board; and that the said John H. Cocke
be and he is hereby appointed to examine and
verify the accounts of the said bursar, from the
410 Jefferson's Works
z 7th day of November, 1821, to this date, and
make report thereof to this Board.
Resolved, that George Loyall, Esq., now a member
of this Board, appointed on the resignation of
Robert B. Taylor, be added to the committee for
settlement of the bursar's and proctor's accounts,
with authority to the committee to act singly or
together, as convenience may admit.
The following report was then agreed to :
To the president and directors of the Literary
Fund:
In obedience to the act of the general assembly
of Virginia, requiring that the rector and Visitors
of the University of Virginia, should make report
annually to the president and directors of the
Literary Fund (to be laid before the legislature
at their next succeeding session), embracing a full
account of the disbursements, the funds on hand,
and a general statement of the conditions of the
University, the said rector and Visitors make the
following report :
The Visitors, considering as the law of their
duty the report of the commissioners of 1818
which was made to the legislature, and acted on
by them, from time to time subsequently, have
completed all the buildings proposed by that report,
except one; that is to say, ten distinct houses or
pavilions containing each a lecturing room, with
generally four other apartments for the accommo-
dation of a professor and his family, and with a
Supplementary Manuscripts 411
garden and the requisite family offices; six hotels
for dieting the students, with a single room in each
for a refectory, and two rooms, a garden and offices
for the tenant; and a hundred and nine dormitories,
sufficient each for the accommodation of two stu-
dents, arranged in four distinct rows between the
pavilions and hotels, and united with them by
covered ways ; which buildings are all in readiness
for occupation, except that there is still some
plastering to be done, now in hand, which will
be finished early in the present season, the gardens,
grounds and garden walls to be completed, and
some columns awaiting their capitals not yet received
from Italy. These buildings are mostly paid for
by the moneys which have been received, and it
is still expected they would be completely so by the
subscriptions due, were they in hand. But the
slowness of their collection will render it necessary
to make good their deficiencies, in the first instance,
out of the annuity of the ensuing years, to be
replaced to that fund again by the subscriptions
as they come in.
The remaining building, necessary to complete
the whole establishment, and called for by the
report of 1818, which was to contain rooms for
religious worship, for public examinations,€for a
library, and for other associated purposes, is not
yet begun for want of funds. It was estimated
heretofore by the proctor, according to the prices
which the other buildings have actually cost, at
412 Jefferson's Works
the sum of 46,847 dollars. The Visitors, from the
beginning, have considered it as indispensable to
complete all the buildings before opening the
institution; because, from the moment that shall
be opened, the whole income of the University
will be absorbed by the salaries of the professors,
and other incidentals and current expenses, and
nothing will remain to erect any building still
wanting to complete the system. They are still
of opinion, therefore, that it is better to postpone
for a while, the commencement of the institution,
and then to open it in full and complete system,
than to begin prematurely in an unfinished state,
and go on, perhaps forever, on the contracted scale
of local academies, utterly inadequate to the great
purposes which the report of 1818 and the legis-
lature have hitherto had in contemplation. They
believe that, in that imperfect state, it will offer
little allurement to other than neighboring students,
and that professors of the first eminence in their
respective 'lines of science, will not be induced to
attach their reputations to an institution, defective
in its outset, and offering no pledge of rising to
future distinction. Yet the Visitors consider the
procuring such characters (and it will certainly be
their aim) as the peculiar feature which is to give
reputation and value to the institution, and to
constitute its desirable and important attraction.
But the present state of the funds renders the
prospect of finishing the last building indefinitely
Supplementary Manuscripts 413
distant. The interest of the sums advanced to
the institution now absorbs nearly half its income.
A suspension of interest indeed, for three or four
years, would give time for erecting the building
with the established annuity; but subsequent repay-
ment of the principal from that annuity would
remove the opening of the institution to a very
remote period.
On this view of the condition of the University,
the Visitors think it their duty to state, if the
legislature shall be of opinion that the sums advanced
to the University, in the name of loans, from the
general fund for education, have been applied to
their legitimate object, and shall think proper to
liberate the annuity from their reimbursement, it
will suffice in three or four years to complete the
last building, and the institution may be opened
at the end of that term. And further, that if the
requisite sum can be supplied from the same or
any other fund, then the University may be put
into as full operation as its income will admit, in
the course of the year ensuing the present date,
and while the remaining building will be proceeding
on such supplementary fund. This, however, or
whatever else their wisdom may desire, is subject
to their discretion to which the Visitors will in
duty conform:
In the same report of the commissioners of 1818
it was stated by them that "in conformity with
the principles of constitution, which place all sects
414 Jefferson's Works
of religion on an equal footing, with the jealousies
of the different sects, in guarding that equality
from encroachment or surprise, and with the senti-
ments of the legislature in freedom of religion,
manifested on former occasions, they had not pro-
posed that any professorship of divinity should be
established in the University; that provision, how-
ever, was made for giving instruction in the Hebrew,
Greek and Latin languages, the depositories of the
originals, and of the earliest and most respected
authorities of the faith of every sect, and for courses
of ethical lectures, developing those moral obliga-
tions in which all sects agree. That, proceeding
thus far, without offence to the constitution, they
had left, at this point, to every sect to take into
their own hands the office of further instruction
in the peculiar tenet of each. "
It was not, however, to be understood that
instruction in religious opinion and duties was
meant to be precluded by the public authorities,
as indifferent to the interests of society. On the
contrary, the relations which exist between man
and his Maker, and the duties resulting from
those relations, are the most interesting and import-
ant to every human being, and the most incumbent
on his study and investigation. The want of
instruction in the various creeds of religious faith
existing among our citizens presents, therefore, a
chasm in a general institution of the useful sciences.
But it was thought that this want, and the entrust-
Supplementary Manuscripts 415
ment to each society of instruction in its own
doctrine, were evils of less danger than a permission
to the public authorities to dictate modes or prin-
ciples of religious instruction, or than opportunities
furnished them by giving countenance or ascend-
ancy to any one sect over another. A remedy, how-
ever, has been suggested of promising aspect,
which, while it excludes the public authorities
from the domain of religious freedom, will give to'
the sectarian schools of divinity the full benefit
the public provisions made for instruction in the
other branches of science. These branches are
equally necessary to the divine as to the other
professional or civil characters, to enable them to
fulfill the duties of their calling with understanding
and usefulness. It has, therefore, been in con-
templation, and suggested by some pious individuals,
who perceive the advantages of associating other
studies with those of religion, to establish their
religious schools on the confines of the University,
so as to give to their students ready and convenient
access and attendance on the scientific lectures of
the University; and to maintain, by that means,
those destined for the religious professions on as
high a standing of science, and of personal weight
and respectability, as may be obtained by others
from the benefits of the University: Such establish-
ments would offer the further and greater advantage
of enabling the students of the University to attend
religious exercises with the professor of their par-
416 Jefferson's Works
ticular sect, either in the rooms of the building
still to be erected, and destined to that purpose
under impartial regulations, as proposed in the
same report of the commissioners, or in the lecturing
room of such professor. To such propositions the
Visitors are disposed to lend a willing ear, and
would think it their duty to give every encourage-
ment, by assuring to those 'who might choose such
a location for their schools, that the regulations
of the University should be so modified and accom-
modated as to give every facility of access and
attendance to their students, with such regulated
use also as may be permitted to the other students,
of the library which may hereafter be acquired,
either by public or private munificence. But always
understanding that these schools shall be indepen-
dent of the University and of each other. Such
an arrangement would complete the circle of the
useful sciences embraced by this institution, and
would fill the chasm now existing, on principles
which would leave inviolate the constitutional
freedom of religion, the most inalienable and sacred
of all human rights, over which the people and
authorities of this state, individually and publicly,
have ever manifested the most watchful jealousy:
and could this jealousy be now alarmed, in the
opinion of the legislature, by what is here suggested,
the idea will be relinquished on any surmise of
disapprobation which they might think proper to
express.
Supplementary Manuscripts 417
A committee of the Board was duly appointed
to settle finally the accounts of all receipts and
disbursements, from the commencement of the
Central College to the entire completion of the
four ranges of buildings of the University. They
found it necessary to employ a skillful accountant
to make up a complete set of books, in regular
form, wherein all the accounts, general and par-
ticular, should be stated, so as that every dollar
might be traced from its receipt to its ultimate
expenditure, and the clearest view be thus exhibited
of the faithful application of the moneys placed
under the direction of the Board. This work has
taken more time than expected; and although
considerably advanced is not entirely completed.
Until its completion, however, the committee cannot
proceed on the final settlement with which they
are charged. The bursar's accounts for the year
preceding this date are rendered herewith; as are
also the proctor's for the first six months; but his
books and papers being necessarily in the hands
of the accountant, his account for the last year
could not as yet be prepared. The settlement by
the committee, when made, will be transmitted as
a supplementary document, to the Literary Board,
as well as for its regular audit by their accountant,
as to be laid before the legislature.
And the Board adjourned without day.
TH. JEFFERSON, ReCtOr.
October 7, 1822.
VOL. XIX-27
418 Jefferson's Works
Monticello, December 23, 1822.
SIR,-According to the requisitions of the laws
I now transmit to the president and directors of
the Literary Fund, for communication to the
legislature, the annual report of the Visitors of
the University of Virginia, bearing date the 7th
of October last. At that date the regular books
were not yet completed which were under prepa-
ration for the purpose of exhibiting a clear and
methodical view of the application of all the moneys
which have been received and employed on this
institution. From the best view which, before
that time had been taken of the affairs of the Uni-
versity it was expected, as is stated in this report,
that the buildings now prepared would be com-
pletely paid for by the subscription.s still due.
These books have been since completed, and the
result (as appears by the certificates herewith
enclosed) is that the institution has received from
the beginning :
To the 23d of the last month, in the whole, and from
all funds, the sum of...........................$199,149.98 1/2
And is still to receive of subscriptions unpaid 18,343.43 1/2
$217,503.42
That there has been paid, within the same period for
the purposes of the institution, the sum of, $199,159.98 1/2
And there remains to be paid debts, settled and un-
settled about.......................................27,001.63
$226,161.61 1/2
Being more than the arrearages of subscription will
pay by,. $8,658.19 1/2
Supplementary Manuscripts 419
which sum must, therefore, necessarily come from
the annuity of the ensuing year. Some finishings,
of small amount, to the garden walls and pave-
ments also are still wanting, and there will be some
loss of subscriptions by bankruptcies and removals,
though not considerable in proportion to the whole
sum subscribed. A collector, employed some time
since, gives reason to believe that the arrearages
which are separate will be generally paid up in
the course of the ensuing spring.
The accounts of the bursar and proctor have
been examined, from the beginning to the same
date of November 23d, by a member of the Board
of Visitors appointed a committee for that purpose,
have been tested by their vouchers, and the result
certified in the books by the committee, as is shown
by the certificates, copies of which accompany
this report. From this it will appear that, in a
course of so great expenditure, every article (a
single one excepted of seventy-five cents only) has
been satisfactorily vouched as faithfully applied to
the purposes of the institution, with the sanction
of the Visitors. The bursar and proctor will pro-
ceed without delay, with their accounts and vouchers,
to settle with the public accountant the trust which
they have so far and so correctly executed. The
proctor's last semi-annual account, not ready at
the date of the report, is now transmitted.
An estimate made by the proctor at an early
period, supposed that the last building called for
420 Jefferson's Works
by the report of 1818 and not yet executed, would
probably cost the sum of 46,847 dollars,but this
did not include two considerable appendages neces-
sary to connect it with the other buildings. An
estimate including these, now recently made by
the principal undertakers and executors of the
other buildings, raises its amount to about one-
third more.
It is by instruction from the Visitors that I com-
municate facts which, resulting from investigation
not concluded at the date of their report, and
consequently not known to them, constitute an
important supplement to the matter of their report,
to which I add the assurance of my high con-
sideration.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector.
A meeting of the rector and Visitors of the Uni-
versity of Virginia was held at the University on
7th April, 1823, at which were present, Thomas
Jefferson, James Madison, Chapman Johnson, George
Loyall and Joseph C. Cabell.
It was resolved, that the loan of sixty thousand
dollars, which the president and directors of the
Literary Fund were authorized by an act of the
last general assembly to make to the University, be
accepted, and that the rector be authorized to
execute the proper bonds, and to take the necessary
steps for drawing the money, and that it be drawn
Supplementary Manuscripts 421
in the following time and sums: that is to say,
thirty thousand dollars immediately, and the remain-
ing thirty thousand dollars on the first day of
January next; or in such other sums, and at such
other times, as the president and directors of the
Literary Fund and the executive committee of the
University may agree upon.
It was resolved that the charges of Mr. Coffee
for materials, packages, etc., be all.owed him.
An anonymous letter, supposed to be in the hand-
writing of James Oldham, a carpenter, formerly
employed at the University, which bears date 18
January, 1822 (by error as is supposed for 1823),
and addressed to Thomas Griffin, Esq., a member
of the legislature of Virginia, containing various
charges, of misconduct, against Arthur S. Brocken-
brough, the proctor of the University, having been
laid before the Board by the said Brockenbrough,
and the Board thinking that if the said James
Oldham will avow himself the author of this letter,
and profess himself willing to afford any evidence
of these charges, they ought to be investigated.
Therefore, resolved, that the executive committee
be charged with the duty of calling on the said
Oldham, to declare whether he is the author of the
letter aforesaid, and is willing to give any informa-
tion as to the charges therein mentioned, and if
he avow himself the author, and willing to give
the information, then that they enter into the
investigation thereof, upon evidence taken in such
422 Jefferson's Works
mode as they may prescribe, and report thereon
to this Board at their next meeting
Resolved, that the executive committee be author-
ized and required to employ from time to time
an accountant, to settle and state the accounts of
the University and to report thereon to the Board,
at each meeting, and that they allow to the said
accountant a reasonable compensation for his
service.
Resolved, that Joseph C. Cabell and John H.
Cocke, or either of whom may act, be appointed
a committee to settle and report to the Board the
accounts of the bursar and proctor of the Univer-
sity, with authority, if they deem it expedient, to '
require a statement thereof by the accountant.
The Board adjourns indefinitely.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector.
April 7, 1823.
A meeting of the rector and Visitors of the Uni-
versity of Virginia was held at the University on
the 6th October., 1823, at which were present
Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Brecken-
ridge, John H. Cocke, George Loyall and Joseph C.
Cabell.
Resolved, that the Board approves of the con-
tract entered into with Giacomo Raggi, for furnish-
ing bases of marble of Cararra for the columns of
the rotunda.
Supplementary Manuscripts 423
Resolved, that they recommend to the executive
committee to procure capitals of the same marble
for the same columns if practicable, on terms not
higher than those offered by Thos. Appleton.
Resolved, that they recommend also to the said
committee to procure squares of marble for paving
the portico of the rotunda, if they find that it can
be done on terms preferable to what it will cost
to have the same paved with country stone.
Resolved, that it be an instruction to the collector
of the University to call once more on the sub-
scribers who are in arrear, for the payment of
their arrears, that from those not ready to make
payment, he may receive, instead thereof, bonds or
notes from those who have nc,t already given
them, payable in ninety days; and if these be not
given, that he institute suits in the proper court
with instructions to the attorney engaged to press
the suits to execution with the least delay practicable.
Resolved, that the Board think it expedient to
continue the collector so long as the executive
committee may deem his employment necessary
to finish the collection.
A report to the president and directors of the
Literary Fund having been proposed, was agreed to.
TH. JEFFERSON.
October 6, I 8 z 3.
424 Jefferson's Works
To the president and directors of the Literary
Fund :
In obedience to the law requiring that the rector
and Visitors of the University of Virginia should
make report annually to the president and directors
of the Literary Fund (to be laid before the legis-
lature at their next succeeding session), embracing
a full account of the disbursements, the funds on
hand, and a general statement of the condition of
the said University, the said rector and Visitors
make the following report :
In conformity with the act of the general assembly
of February 5 of the present year, requiring that,
out of the invested capital then lying in the Literary
Fund, there should be loaned, by the president and
directors of the said fund, to the rector and Visitors
of the University of Virginia, for the purpose of
completing the buildings, and making the necessary
preparations for putting the said University into
operation, any sum required by the said rector and
Visitors, not exceeding that of 6o,000 dollars; the
Visitors at their meeting on the 7th of April last,
deemed it necessary for the institution to require
the whole of the said sum, but that it should be
drawn in different portions and at different times,
as it should be wanting, so far as the Literary
Board should think advisable. There was accord-
ingly received, by an order of the said Board, in
the month of May last, a sum of forty thousand
dollars. * * * * * * * in consequence hereof the
Supplementary Manuscripts 425
larger. building, for a library an.d other purposes
was commenced and has been carried on with
activity, insomuch that its walls are now ready
to receive their roof; but that being of hemispher-
ical form and pressing outwardly in every direction,
it has been thought not advisable to place it on
the walls in their present green state, but rather
to give them time to settle and dry until the ensuing
season, when the roof will be ready, and the walls
in a proper condition to receive it. Whether the
interior work of the building will be finished within
the ensuing year is doubtful.
The report of the 7th of October of the last year
stated that the buildings for the accommodation
of the professors and students were in readiness for
occupation, except as to small articles of plaster-
ing then on hand, the garden walls and grounds,
and some columns which awaited their capitals
from abroad. These finishings are done, the capitals
are received and put up; and the whole of these
buildings are now in perfect readiness for putting
the institution into operation. . And this might be
done (taking reasonable time for procuring pro-
fessors) at the close of the ensuing year, 1824
were its funds liberated from their present incum-
brances; but these remove the epoch to a very
distant time. The several sums advanced from
the Literary Fund as. loans, when the balance of
the last shall have been received, will amount to
180,000 dollars, bearing a present interest of 10,800
426 Jefferson's Works
dollars. This, with the cost of the necessary care
and preservation of the establishment will leave,
of the annual endowment of the University, a sur-
plus of between two and three thousand dollars
only, with its compound increase for the redemption
of the principal. This being as before mentioned,
of 180,000 dollars, will be extinguished by the
annual payment of a constant sum of z, 5oo dollars
at the end of twenty-five years, a term too distant
for the education of any person already born, or
to be born for some time to come; and within
that period a great expense will be incurred in the
mere preservation of the buildings and appurte-
nances. These are views which it is the duty of
the Visitors to present, and to leave to the wisdom
and paternal consideration of the legislature, to
whose care are confided the instruction, and other
interests of the present, as well as of the future
generations proceeding from us.
That report, with the letter of the 23d accom-
panying it, stated also that the buildings of accom-
modation for the professors and students were so
far paid for as that the arrearages of subscriptions
still due being 18,343 dollars 43.5 cents would,
when received, complete their payment to within
€he sum of 8,658 dollars 19.5 cents. While there
were other funds to which present recourse could
be had, it had been deemed reasonable to indulge
the convenience of such subscribers as found diffi-
culties in paying their installments rigorously at
Supplementary Manuscripts 427
the periods prescribed. But that the arrears having
then become urgently necessary, an active collector
had been employed to settle and call for them. In
the course of the year he has collected, of these
arrearages, the sum of 4,525 dollars 77.5 cents ;
he has obtained bonds or promises, verbal or written,
for prompt payment, deemed good, to the amount
of 10,107 dollars 93.75 cents; and as to the remainder,
some of the subscribers have not yet been called
on, some have removed out of the State, and some
become insolvent; of this remainder, he considers
932 dollars 25 cents sperate, and the residue,
between 2,500 and 2,600 dollars as desperate ;
which on 43,508 dollars, the whole sum subscribed,
will be an ultimate loss of nearly 6 per cent. This
will so far increase the deficit of 8,658.19.5 before
stated as falling short of paying for the four rows
of buildings, and so far add to the charge on the
funds on hand or still to accrue. This state of
things obliges a call for peremptory and prompt
payment of these arrearages, which cannot be
thought unreasonable by the subscribers who have
been so far indulged already, when it is considered
that these works were engaged on the faith of the
sums subscribed, so far as their amount, that those
who undertook them have accordingly executed
them, and are now justly entitled to the com-
pensation stipulated. We trust, therefore, that,
in the course of the ensuing twelve months, these
arrearages will be paid up, except such as inter-
428 Jefferson's Works
vening circumstances may have rendered desperate.
A general statement of the receipts and expendi-
tures, from all funds and for all purposes, from the
beginning of the establishment to the 1st of October
of the last year, was communicated for the legis-
lature, at their last session. Those of the bursar
and proctor, for the year ending the 1st day of
this present October are herewith rendered. They
have been duly settled; and tested by their vouchers,
by the same accountant and committee employed
on the former occasion, and will be duly submitted
by those officers, for audit by the accountant of
the Literary Board.
' TH. JEFFERSON.
October 6, I 8 z 3.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University
of Virginia, held at the said University on Monday,
the 5th day of April, 1824; as prescribed by the
Governor of the Commonwealth; present, James
Madison, Chapman Johnson, John H. Cocke and
Thomas Jefferson.
On a view of the commissions produced, and of
a letter from the Governor, dated the 1st of March
last past, it appears that Thomas Jefferson, James
Madison, Chapman Johnson, Joseph C. Cabell,
George Loyall, James Breckenridge and John H.
Cocke were on the same 1st day of the said month
of March appointed by the Governor, with advice
of counsel, Visitors of the said University.
Supplementary Manuscripts 429
The Board proceeded to the appointment of a
rector, and Thomas Jefferson was appointed; and
being of opinion that the other officers of the insti-
tution continue in office of course, they deem
reappointment unnecessary.
The legislature, at their late session, having
released to the University the payment of interest
on the sum of 180,000 dollars, advanced by the
Literary Fund for the accomplishment of its build-
ings, with the view that the institution may be
brought into operation with as little delay as
practicable, the Board now proceeds to take such
preparatory measures as can be taken at this time,
to carry that view into effect.
From accounts and estimates now rendered by
the bursar and proctor, it appears that, on the
last day of the preceding year, 1823, the funds
of the University in hand and due of the last loan,
and of the arrearages of subscriptions, would be
sufficient, when received, to pay all debts then
existing on any account, and to leave a sum of
about 21,000 dollars applicable to the building of
the rotunda, which, with the further sum of 19,370
dollars 40.5 cents already paid or provided for,
making together the sum of about 40,500 dollars
applied, or which may be applied, to that edifice,
would put it into a state sufficient for use, until
other and more pressing objects shall have been
accomplished.
They consider the University, therefore, as having
430 Jefferson's Works
had in hand on the 1st day of this present year,
1824, the annuity of this year, clear of all prior
claims, as a fund for defraying the current expenses
of the institution 'for the present year, for meeting
those necessary for procuring professors, for bringing
them into place, for paying any commencements
of salaries which may be incurred to the end of
the year, and to leave a surplus for contingencies
of about 3,000 dollars. '
They calculate that in future years, in addition
to the annuity of 25,000 dollars, they may count
on the rents of six hotels at 150 dollars each, of
100 dormitories at sixteen dollars each, of nine
others smaller at twelve dollars each, and an addi-
tional rent from 218 students at twelve dollars
each, for their participation in the use of the public
apartments; making a total income of 21,224
dollars.
They are of opinion that to obtain professors
of the first order of science in their respective lines,
they must resort principally to Europe; and that
persons of eminence may not be expected to leave
a known for an untried situation, but on certain
salaries in addition to liberal tuition fees.
On this view of their future funds, it is evident
that they will not be adequate to the full establish-
ment of the ten professorships contemplated by the
legislature i n their act of January 25, 1819, for
establishing the University.
It is their opinion, however, that they may,
Supplementary Manuscripts 431
on that income, adventure on the establishment
of eight professorships, either immediately, or at
a period not distant; and that the branches of
science proposed to be taught in the University
may be arranged within the competence of that
number for a time, and until future and favorable
circumstances may enable them to add others to
lighten duly the professorships thus overcharged
with duties.
That to be ensured of obtaining characters of
the due degree of science, of talents for instruction,
and of correct habits and morals, a special agent
be sent to Europe, and of preference to the countries
there using our own language, to make the selection,
under necessary instructions, caution. and advise-
ment, and to counsel and effect their passage to
this country and to the University.
That the agent be instructed to procure them
for such compensation, within the limits herein
prescribed, as he shall find practicable and deem
right; that he offer to each a fixed salary, not less
than I ,000 nor more than 1,500 dollars a year
with the privilege of receiving th.e tuition fees
required from the students by the regulations of
this Board, and that he be authorized, if he find
it expedient, to assure to each, or any of them,
that his salary, together with his fees, shall not
be less annually, for five years, than the sum of
2,5oo dollars; and that though the Board of Visitors
retain the power of regulating the tuition fees from
432 Jefferson's Works
time to time, as circumstances may require, they
will not reduce them below the rate now fixed at
any time within five years, without the consent
of the professor to be affected by such reduction,
and at no time thereafter without strong consid-
eration connected with the prosperity of the
institution.
That a sum of 2,000 dollars be placed in Great
Britain subject to his orders, for such advances as
may be necessary to the professors on account of
salaries; which salaries may commence on the 1st
day of October, or on whatever later day they
may embark for their destination.
That a further sum of 6,000 dollars be placed
in like manner for the purchase of such chemical,
astronomical, physical and mathematical apparatus,
and for such text books, as on consultation with
the representative professors, each for his depart-
ment, shall be deemed indispensable for a beginning,
and not exceeding in the whole the sum so placed
That the sum of 1,500 dollars be allowed and
advanced to the agent in full of all compensation
for his expenses and services on this mission.
Resolved, that Francis Walker Gilmer be appointed
agent for the purposes aforesaid; that he proceed
on the mission with as little delay as possible,
and that he use his best diligence to have the pro-
fessors in place by the middle of November next,
that there be time for announcing sufficiently, and
on certain grounds, the commencement of the
Supplementary Manuscripts 433
institution on the 1st day of February following.,
That, if the moneys destined for these advances
be not in hand, to save time and disappointment,
they be borrowed by the executive committee on
the credit of the University, from any bank body,
or individual, whatever, to be replaced by the said
moneys when received.
And inasmuch as it is necessary for the infor-
mation of the agents, now to specify the sciences
to be taught, and their distribution among the
professorships, and it may be satisfactory to the
professors also to know what their general situation
in the University will be, what and on whom their
dependence will be, and the duties expected from
them, the Board proceeds to the following enact-
ments; adjourning, however, for the present until
to-morrow.
Tuesday, April 6th a constant and heavy rain
prevented the meeting of the Board.
Wednesday, April 7, 1824.
Joseph C. Cabell attended with the members
present on Monday. In the University of Virginia
shall be instituted eight professorships, to wit : 1st, of
ancient' languages ; 2d, modern languages ; 3d, mathe-
matics ; 4th, natural philosophy ; 5th, natural history ;
6th, anatomy and medicine; 7th, moral philosophy;
8th, law.
VOL. XIX-2$
434 Jefferson's Works
In the school of ancient languages shall be
taught the higher grade of the Latin and Greek
languages, the Hebrew, rhetoric, belles-lettres,
ancient history and ancient geography.
In the school of modern languages shall be taught
French, Spanish, Italian,. German and the English
language in its Anglo-Saxon for m ; also modern
history and modern geography.
In the school of mathematics shall be taught
mathematics generally including the high branches
of numerical arithmetic, algebra, trigonometry, plane
and spherical geometry, mensuration, navigation,
conic sections, fluxions or differentials, military and
civil architecture.
In the school of natural philosophy shall be taught
the laws and properties of bodies generally, including
mechanics, statics, hydrostatics, hydraulics, pneu-
matics, acoustics, optics and astronomy.
In the school of natural history shall be taught
botany, zoology, mineralogy, chemistry, geology and
rural economy.
In the school of anatomy and medicine shall be
taught anatomy, surgery, the history of the progress
and theories of medicine, physiology, pathology,
materia medica and pharmacy.
In the school of moral philosophy shall be taught
mental science generally, including ideology, general
grammar, logic and ethics.
In the school of law shall be taught the common
and statute law, that of the chancery, the laws
Supplementary Manuscripts 435
feudal, civil, mercatorial, maritime and of nature
and nations; and also the principles of government
and political economy.
This arrangement, however, shall not be under-
stood as forbidding occasional transpositions of a
particular branch of science from one school to
another in accommodation of the particular quali-
fications of different professors.
In each of these schools instruction shall be
communicated by lessons or lectures, examinations
and exercises, as shall be best adapted to the nature
of ' the science, and number of the school ; and
exercises shall be prescribed to employ the vacant
days and hours.
The professors shall be permitted to occupy, rent
free, a pavilion each, with the grounds appropriated
to it. They shall also receive from the funds of
the University such compensation as shall have
been stipulated by the agent or fixed by the Board;
and from each student attending them tuition fees
as hereinafter declared.
The professors shall permit no waste to be com-
mitted in their tenements, and shall maintain the
internal of their pavilions, and also the windows,
doors and locks external during their occupation,
in as good repair and condition as they shall have
received them.
The collegiate duties of a professor, if discharged
conscientiously, with industry and zeal, being suf-
ficient to engross all his hours of business. he shall
436 Jefferson's Works
engage in no other pursuits of emolument uncon-
nected with the service of the University without
the consent of the Visitors.
Every student shall pay to the professor whom
he attends, if he attends but one, fifty dollars the
session of ten months and a half; if two, thirty
dollars each, if three or more, twenty-five dollars
each-and these payments shall be made in advance,
and before his admission into the school. And
they shall maintain their dormitories in the con-
dition in which they shall receive them in like
manner as is required of the professors. The proc-
tor shall in duty attend in both cases to the obser-
vance of this requisition.
Although, as before expressed, the Board is in
the expectation that they may be able, either
immediately or at no distant period, to establish
eight professorships; yet some uncertainties in the
state of their funds, and other considerations render
it prudent, for the present, to establish seven only;
and the school of anatomy being that which it
will be most expedient to postpone, they instruct
their agent accordingly to make no engagement
for an anatomical professor, or a provisional one
only, subject to the future determination of the
Board. They deem it also expedient that pro-
fessors of law and moral philosophy shall be taken
from among the citizens of the United States.
Considering as satisfactory the qualifications and
character of George Blaettermann, of the city of
Supplementary Manuscripts 437
London, recommended to them as professor of
modern languages, the agent is authorized to
engage him for that professorship, unless circum-
stances unknown to this Board should, in his judg-
ment, furnish cause to decline that engagement,
and to proceed to procure one who may merit
more unexceptionably the approbation of the Board.
The Board then proceeded to the appointment
of a professor, and Francis Walker Gilmer was
appointed to the professor of law, or of moral
philosophy, at his election, to be signified to the
rector.
The executive committee are authorized to appoint
a collector of the arrears of subscriptions, and are
required to take measures as may be necessary to
effect a speedy collection.
An act of the last assembly having appropriated
to the University, for the purchase of a library
and apparatus, the sum of 50,000 dollars out of
the first moneys that may be received from the
government of the United States on account of
the claim of this Commonwealth for advances and
expenditures during the late war, having also
authorized a contingent loan to that amount, by
board of public works, on the credit of the appro-
priation so made, and it being proper to provide
for the receipt and disposal of this money, and
for 'the negotiations of the authorized loan to such
extent as may be advisable, the Board doth there-
fore, resolve :
438 Jefferson's Works
First, that as soon as the money so appropriated,
or any part thereof, shall be payable, it be paid
to the bursar of the University, or to his order;
that so much thereof as may be required by the
executive committee, not exceeding 20,000 dollars,
be placed by him in Europe under the control of
the agent hereby deputed to that country, to be
employed in the purchase of such books and appa-
ratus as may be deemed most useful for the com-
mencement of the several schools in the University ;
and the balance of the money which may be received
by the bursar be deposited in bank, subject to the
future orders of the Board.
Secondly, that the executive committee be author-
ized, if they deem it expedient, in anticipation of
the money to be received from the General Govern-
ment, to negotiate a loan with the board of public
works for any sum not exceeding that hereby
directed to be placed under the control of the agent
in Europe ; and to pledge the money so to be received
from the General Government for the payment of
the interest and refunding the principal of the loan ;
and any money so borrowed by the executive com-
mittee shall be placed under the control of the
agent in Europe, in lieu of that mentioned in the
first resolution, and for the purpose therein specified.
And the Board adjourned without day.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector.
Supplementary Manuscripts 439
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University,
at the University, on Monday the 4th of October,
1824, at which were present, Thomas Jefferson,
James Madison, James Breckenridge, John H. Cocke,
George Loyall and Joseph C. Cabell.
Resolved, that the Board ratify two purchases
of land in front of the rotunda, purchased of Daniel
A. Piper and Mary A. F., his wife.
Resolved, that permission be given to Francis W.
Gilmer, now on his mission to Great Britain for
the purpose of engaging professors for the Univer-
sity, to use for his expenses six or seven hundred
dollars of the 6,000 dollars put into his hands for
the purchase of books and apparatus.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of the Board
that if the arrearages of subscriptions should not
be sufficient to pay for the articles of marble con-
tracted for in Italy, it will be proper to supply the
deficiency from the annuity of the year 1825.
Resolved, that the bursar be authorized to enter
into negotiations with any one of the banks for
the purpose of procuring an advance of the separate
part of the arrears of subscriptions, with an under-
standing that the University shall not be called on
for the reimbursement of the moneys till such time
as they shall be paid by the subscribers, or within
such other times as shall be reasonable.
Resolved, that the rent for the hotels be fixed
at 200 dollars per annum.
The Board then proceeded to consider of the
440 Jefferson's Works
regulations necessary for constituting, governing
and conducting the institution in addition to those
passed at their last session, agreed to the following
supplementary enactments :
Each of the schools of the University shall be
held two hours of every other day of the week;
and that every student may be enabled to attend
those of his choice, let their sessions be so arranged,
as to days and hours, that no two of them shall
be holden at the same time. Therefore,
The school of ancient languages shall occupy
from 7.3o to 9.3o a. m., on Mondays, Wednesdays
and Fridays.
That of modern languages shall occupy the same
hours on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
That of mathematics shall occupy from 9.3o to
11.30 a. m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
That of natural philosophy the same hours on
Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
That of natural history shall occupy from 11.30
a. m. to I.3o p. m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and
Fridays.
That of anatomy and medicine the same hours
on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
That of moral philosophy shall occupy from I. 3o
to 3.3o p. m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
That of law the same hours on Tuesdays, Thurs-
days and Saturdays.
The Visitors of the University shall be free,
severally or together, to attend occasionally any
Supplementary Manuscripts 441
school, during its session, as inspectors and judges
of the mode in which it is conducted.
Wherein the instruction is by lessons, and the
class too numerous for a single instructor, assistant
tutors may be employed, to be chosen by the
professor, to have the use of two adjacent dormi-
tories each, rent free, and to divide with the pro-
fessor the tuition fees, as shall be agreed between them.
The professors, tutors and all officers of the
University shall reside constantly in the apart-
ments of the University, or of its precincts, assigned
to them.
At a meeting of the faculty .of professors, on
matters within their functions, one of them shall
preside, by rotation, for the term of one year each.
A majority of the members shall make a quorum
for business. They may appoint a secretary of
their own body, or otherwise, who shall keep a
journal of their proceedings, and lay the same
before the Board of Visitors at their first ensuing
meeting, and whenever else required. The com-
pensation for such secretary shall be fifty dollars
yearly, payable from the funds of the University.
Meetings of the faculty may be called by the
presiding member of the year, or by any three of
the professors, to be held in an apartment of the
rotunda, and the object of the call shall be expressed
in the written notification to be served by the
janitor. But when assembled, other business also
may be transacted.
442 Jefferson's Works
The faculty may appoint a janitor, who shall
attend its meetings, and the meetings of the Visitors,
and shall perform necessary menial offices for them,
for which he shall receive 150 dollars yearly from
the funds of the University, and be furnished with
a lodging room.
No student is to be received under sixteen years
of age, rigorously proved. None to be admitted
into the mathematical school, or chat of natural
philosophy, who is not an adept in all the branches
of numerical arithmetic; and none into the school
of ancient languages, unless qualified, in the
judgment of the professor, to commence reading
the higher Latin classics; nor to receive instruction
in Greek, unless qualified in the same degree in
that language.
No one shall enter as a student of the University,
either at the beginning or during the progress of
the session, but as for the whole session, ending
on the 15th day of December, and paying as for
the whole.
The dormitories shall be occupied by two students
each, and no more, at fifteen dollars yearly rent,
to be paid to the proctor at or before the end of
the session, one-half by each occupant, or the whole
by one, if there be only one. And every student,
within the same term, shall pay to the proctor,
also, for the University, fifteen dollars annually
for his participation in the use of the public apart-
ments during the session.
Supplementary Manuscripts 443
The students shall be free to diet themselves in
any of the hotels of the University, at their choice,
or elsewhere, other than in taverns, as shall suit
themselves, but not more than fifty shall be allowed
to diet at the same hotel.
No keeper of any of the hotels of the University
shall require or receive more than 100 dollars for
dieting any student and for performing the necessary
offices of his dormitory, during the session of ten
months and a half, nor shall suffer ardent spirits
or wine, mixed or unmixed, to be drank within
his tenement, on pain of an immediate determi-
nation of his lease, and removal by the Faculty;
nor shall any person boarding elsewhere than
with their parents, in any house, and using wine
or ardent spirits, mixed or unmixed, within such
house, or its tenement, or paying more than 120
dollars for diet, lodging, and other offices and
accommodations of the house and tenement, during
a like term, be admitted to any school of the Uni-
versity.
Every student shall be free to attend the schools
of his choice, and no other than he chooses.
There will be one vacation only in the year,
and that shall be from the I 5th day of December
to the last day of January.
Examination of the candidates for honorary dis-
tinctions shall be held in the presence of all the
professors and students, in the week preceding the
commencement of the vacation. At these examina-
444 Jefferson's Works
tions shall be given, to the highly meritorious only,
and by the vote of a majority of the professors,
diplomas, or premiums of medals or books, to be
provided by the University, to wit : Diplomas to
those of the highest qualifications, medals of more
or less value to those of the second grade of acquisi-
tion, and books of more or less value to those of
a third. These diplomas shall be of two degrees;
the highest of doctor, the second of graduate.
And the diploma of each shall express the partic-
ular school or schools in which the candidate shall
have been declared eminent, and shall be subscribed
by the particular professors approving it. But no
diploma shall be given to any one who has not
passed such an examination in the Latin language
as shall have proved him able to read the highest
classics in that language with ease, thorough under-
standing and just quantity; and if he be also a
proficient in the Greek, let that, too, be stated in
his diploma. The intention being that the repu-
tation of the University shall not be committed
but to those who, to an eminence in some one or
more of the sciences taught in it, add a proficiency
in these languages which constitute the basis of
good education, and are indispensable to fill up the
character of a "well-educated man."
Punishment for major offences shall be expulsion,
temporary suspension, or interdiction of residence
or appearance within the precincts of the Univer-
sity. The minor punishment shall be restraint
Supplementary Manuscripts 445
within those precincts, within their own chamber,
or in diet, reproof by a professor, privately or in
presence of the school of the offender, or of all
the schools, a seat of degradation in his school-room
of longer or shorter duration, removal to a lower
class, dismission from the school-room for the day,
imposition of a task; and insubordination to these
sentences shall be deemed and punished as con-
tumacy.
Contumacy shall be liable to any of the minor
punishments.
The precincts of the University are to be under-
stood as co-extensive with the lot or parcel of its
own grounds on which it is situated.
The major punishments of expulsion from the
University, temporary suspension of attendance and
presence there, or interdiction of residence or appear-
ance within its precincts, shall be decreed by the
professors themselves. Minor cases may be referred
to a board of six censors, to be named by the faculty,
from the most discreet of the students, whose duty
it shall be, sitting as a board, to inquire into the
facts, propose the minor punishment which they
think proportioned to the offence, and to make
report thereof to the professors for their appro-
bation, or their commutation of the penalty, if it
be beyond the grade of the offence. The censors
shall hold their offices until the end of the session
of their appointment, if not sooner revoked by the
faculty.
446 Jefferson's Works
In attendance on school, inattention to the exer-
cises prescribed, and misbehavior or indecorum in
school shall be subject to any of the minor punish-
ments; and the professor of the school may singly
reprove, impose a task, or dismiss from the room
for the day.
Habits of expense, of dissoluteness, dissipation,
or of playing at games of chance, being obstructive
to the acquisition of science by the student himself
and injurious by example to others, shall be subject
in the first instance to admonition and reproof to
the offender, and to communication and warning to
the parent or guardian, and, if not satisfactorily
corrected, to a refusal of further continuance at the
University.
No student shall make any festive entertainment
within the precincts of the University, nor contri-
bute or be present at them, there or elsewhere, but
with the consent of each of the professors whose
school he attends, on pain of a minor punishment.
No student shall admit any disturbing noises in
his room, or make them anywhere within the pre-
cincts of the University, or fire a gun or pistol
within the same, on pain of such minor sentence
as the faculty shall decree or approve. But the
proper use of musical instruments shall be freely
allowed in their rooms, and in that appropriated
for instruction in music.
Riotous, disorderly, intemperate or indecent con-
duct of any student within the precincts shall be
Supplementary Manuscripts 447
punished by interdiction of a residence within the
precincts ; and repetitions of such offences, by expul-
sion from the University.
Fighting with weapons which may inflict death,
or a challenge to such fight, given or accepted,
shall be punished by instant expulsion from the
University, not remissible by the Faculty; and it
shall be the duty of the proctor to give information
thereof to the civil magistrate, that the parties
may be dealt with according to law.
Offences cognisable by the laws of the land shall
be left to the cognisance of the civil magistrate,
if claimed by him, or otherwise to the judgment
of the faculty; all others to that of the faculty.
And such of these as are not specially designated
in enactments of the Visitors may be subjected by
the faculty to any of the minor punishments per-
mitted by these enactments.
Sentences of expulsion from the University (except
in the case of challenge or combat with arms) shall.
not be final until approved by the Board of Visitors
or, .when they are not in session, by a majority of
them, separately consulted. But residence within
the precincts, and attendance on the schools may
be suspended in the meantime.
No student shall, within the precincts of the
University, introduce, keep or use any spirituous
or vinous liquors, keep or use weapons or arms of
any kind, or gunpowder, keep a servant, horse or
dog, appear in school with a stick, or any weapon,
448 Jefferson's Works
nor while in school, be covered without permission
of the professor, nor use tobacco by smoking or
chewing, on pain of any of the minor punishments
at the discretion of the faculty, or of the board of
censors, approved by the faculty.
All damages done to instruments, books, build-
ings or other property of the University by any
student, shall be made good at his expense; and
wilful injury to any tree, shrub or other plant
within the precincts, shall be punished by fine, not
exceeding ten dollars, at the discretion of the
faculty.
When a professor knocks at the door of a student's
room, any person being within, and announces
himself, it shall be opened, on pain of minor pun-
ishment; and the professor may, if refused, have
the door broken open; and the expenses of repair
shall be levied on the student or students within.
At the hour appointed for the meeting of every
school, the roll of the school shall be called over,
the absentees and those appearing tardily, shall be
noted, and if no sufficient cause be offered, at the
rising of the school, to the satisfaction of the pro-
fessor, the notation shall stand confirmed, and
shall be given in to the faculty, the presiding
member of which for the time being shall, on the
15th days of May, August and December, or as
soon after each of these days as may be, transmit
by mail a list of these notations to the parent or
guardian of each delinquent
Supplementary Manuscripts 449
When testimony is required from a student, it
shall be voluntary, and not on oath. And the
obligation to give it shall-(if unwilling to give it,
let the moral obligation be explained and urged,
under which every one is bound to bear witness,
where wrong has been done, but finally let it) be
left to his own sense of right.l
Should the religious sects of this State, or any
of them, according to the invitation held out to
them, establish within, or adjacent to, the precincts
of the University, schools for instruction in the
religion of their sect, the students of the University
will be free, and expected to attend religious worship
at the establishment of their respective sects, in
the morning, and in time to meet their school in
the University at its stated hour.
The students of such religious school, if they
attend any school of the University, shall be con-
sidered as students of the University, subject to
the same regulations, and entitled to the same
rights and privileges.
The room provided for a school-room in every
pavilion shall be used for the school of its occupant
professor, and shall be furnished by the University
with necessary benches and tables.
The upper circular room of the rotunda shall be
reserved for a library.
One of its larger elliptical rooms on its middle
floor shall be used for annual examinations, for
@#(1)This altern was made by the Board March 5, 1825.
Vol. xix-29
450 Jefferson's Works
lectures to such schools as are too numerous fox
their ordinary school room, and for religious worship,
under the regulations allowed to be prescribed by
law. The other rooms on the same floor may be
used by schools of instruction in drawing, music,
or any other of the innocent and ornamental accom-
plishments of life; but under such instructors only
as shall be approved and licensed by the faculty.
The rooms in the basement story of the rotunda
shall be, one of them for a chemical laboratory,
and the others for any necessary purpose to which
they may be adapted.
The two open apartments, adjacent to the same
story of the rotunda, shall be appropriated to the
gymnastic exercises and games of the students,
among which shall be reckoned military exercises.
A military instructor shall be provided at the
expense of the University, to be appointed by the
faculty, who shall attend on every Saturday from
half after one o 'clock to half after three p. m. , and
shall instruct the students in the manual exercise,
in field evolutions, manoeuvres and encampments.
The students shall attend these exercises, and
shall be obedient to the military orders of their
instructor. The roll shall be regularly called over
by him at the hour of meeting, absences and insub-
ordinations shall be noted, and the list of the
deliquents shall be delivered to the presiding mem-
ber of the faculty for the time being to be animad-
verted on by the faculty, and such minor punish-
Supplementary Manuscripts 451
ment imposed as each case shall, in their discretion,
require. The school of modern languages shall be
pretermitted on the days of actual military exercise.
Substitutes in the form of arms shall be provided
by the proctor, at the expense of the University;
they shall be distinguished by numbers, delivered
out, received in and deposited under the care and
responsibility of the instructor, in a proper deposi-
tory to be furnished him; and all injuries to them
by a student shall be repaired at the expense of
such student.
Work-shops shall be provided, whenever con-
venient, at the expense of the University, wherein
the students who choose, may exercise themselves
in the use of tools, and such mechanical practices
as it is convenient and useful for every person to
understand, and occasionally to practice. These
shops may be let, rent free, to such skillful and
orderly mechanics as shall be approved by the
faculty, on the condition that they will permit
the use of their tools, instruments and implements,
within the shop, to such students as shall desire
and use the permission discreetly, and under a
liability for any injury they may do them; and
on the further condition, if necessary, of such
mechanics receiving instruction gratis in the mechan-
ical and philosophical principles of his art, so far
as taught in any of the schools.
The Board then proceeded to consider the draught
of a report to be made, as required by law, to the
452 Jefferson's Works
president and directors of the Literary Fund, and
before concluding it finally, they adjourned to
to-morrow morning.
Tuesday, October 5th, 1824.
The Board met pursuant to adjournment. Pre-
sent, Thomas Jefferson, James Breckenridge, John
H. Cocke and Joseph C. Cabell.
On motion, resolved, that the proctor be author-
ized and required, after the 15th day of November
next, to lease the hotels of the University to such
persons offering, of worthy and proper character,
as he shall approve; that the lease shall not be of
a longer term than one year; and that he cause
to be inserted therein such covenants as he shall
deem necessary as to the preservation of the houses,
inclosures and appurtenances of the tenements,
and observance of the preceding regulations; and
that this be published without delay, that all
persons may have notice who may desire to apply.
And the Board, having concluded, and agreed to
the report to be made to the president and directors
of the Literary Fund, adjourned without day.
TH. JEFFERSON, ReCtOr.
October 5th, 1824.
Which report is in the words following:
To the president and directors of the Literary
Fund:
In obedience to the law requiring that the rector
Supplementary Manuscripts 453
and Visitors of the University of Virginia should
make report annually to the president and directors
of the Literary Fund (to be laid before the legislature
at their next succeeding session), embracing a full
account of the disbursements, the funds on hand,
and a general statement of the condition of the
said University, the said rector and Visitors make
the following report :
In that of the preceding year it was stated that
the buildings for the accommodation of the pro-
fessors and students were in readiness for their
occupation, and that the walls of the larger build-
ing, intended for a library and other purposes,
were completed. In the course of the present
season this building has received its roof, and will
be put into a condition for preservation and use,
although its interior cannot be completed. It was
then also stated that, without awaiting that com-
pletion, the institution might be put into operation
at the close of this present year were its funds
liberated from the encumbrances with which they
were charged. This obstacle was removed by the
act of the legislature of January 27 of the present
year concerning the University of Virginia.
In consequence of this liberation, the Board of
Visitors at their ensuing meeting, on the 5th of
April last, proceeded to take such preparatory
measures as could be taken at that time to carry
the views of the legislature into effect with as
little delay as practicable. From the accounts and
454 Jefferson's Works
estimates then rendered by the bursar and proctor,
it appeared that on the last day of the preceding
year, I 8 z 3, the funds in hand and due to the Uni-
versity, of the last loan, and of the arrearages of
subscriptions, would be sufficient, when received,
to pay all debts then existing on any account, and
to leave a sum of about 21,000 dollars applicable
to the building of the library, which, with the sum
of 19,370.40 1/2 dollars already paid or provided
for that edifice, would put it into a state of safety
and of some uses, until other and more pressing
objects should have been accomplished. They con-
sider the University, therefore, as having had in
hand, on the first day of the present year, 1824,
the annuity of this year (clear of all prior claims),
as a fund for defraying the current expenses
of the year, for meeting those necessary toward
securing professors, paying any commencement
of salaries which might be incurred to the end
of the year, and to leave a small surplus for con-
tingencies.
They found, from a view of the future income,
consisting of the annuity, and such rents for build-
ings as may be reasonably required that it would
not be adequate to the full establishment of the
ten professorships contemplated by the legislature
in their act of January 25, 1819, for establishing
the University ; but that it might suffice for insti-
tuting eight professorships for the present, and
that the branches of science proposed to be taught
Supplementary Manuscripts 455
in the University might be arranged within the
competence of that number for a time, and until
future and favorable circumstances might enable
them to add the others, and to lighten duly the
professorships thus overcharged with duties.
They proceeded, therefore, to settle the organ-
ization of the schools, and the distribution of the
sciences among them, and they concluded on the
same, as follows :
In the University of Virginia shall be instituted
eight professorships, to wit: First, of ancient lan-
guages ; second, modern languages ; third, mathe-
matics ; fourth, natural philosophy ; fifth, natural
history ; sixth, anatomy and medicine ; seventh,
moral philosophy ; eighth, law.
In the school of ancient languages are to be
taught the higher grade of the Latin and Greek
languages, the Hebrew, rhetoric, belles-lettres,
ancient history and ancient geography.
In the school of modern languages are to be
taught French, Spanish, Italian, German and the
English language in its Anglo-Saxon form; also
modern history and modern geography.
In the school of mathematics are to be taught
mathematics generally, including the higher branches
of numerical arithmetic, algebra, trigonometry plane
and spherical, geometry, mensuration, navigation,
conic sections, fluxions or differentials, military
and civil architecture.
In the school of natural philosophy are to be
456 Jefferson's Works
taught the laws and properties of bodies generally,
including mechanics, statics, hydro-statics, hydrau-
lics, pneumatics, acoustics, optics and astronomy.
In the school of natural history are to be taught
botany, zoology, mineralogy, chemistry, geology
and rural economy.
In the school of anatomy and medicine are tu
be taught anatomy, surgery, the history of the
progress and theories of medicine, physiology, path-
ology, materia medica and pharmacy.
In the school of moral philosophy are to be
taught mental science generally, including ideology,
general grammar and ethics.
In the school of law are to be taught the common
arid statute law, that of the chancery, the laws
feudal, civil, mercatorial, maritime and of nature
and nations ; and also the principles of government
and political economy.
But it was meant that this distribution should
give way to occasional interchanges of particular
branches of science, among the professors, in accom-
modation of their respective qualifications.
The Visitors were sensible that there might be
found in the different seminaries of the United
States persons qualified to conduct these several
schools with entire confidence; but it was neither
probable that they would leave the situations in
which they then were, nor honorable or moral to
endeavor to seduce them from their stations ; and to
have filled the professional chairs with unemployed
Supplementary Manuscripts 457
and secondary characters, would not have fulfilled the
object, or satisfied the expectations of our country
in this institution. It was, moreover, believed that,
to advance in science, we must avail ourselves of
the lights of countries already advanced before us.
It was, therefore, deemed most advisable to resort
to Europe for some of the professors, and of prefer-
ence to the countries which speak the same language
in order to obtain characters of the first grade of
science in their respective lines. And, to make
the selection with proper information, caution and
advisement, it was necessary to send an agent of
science and confidence. Francis W. Gilmer, a
learned and trustworthy citizen of this State, was
appointed and has proceeded on the mission; and
should his object be accomplished as early as
expected, we count on opening the institution on
the 1st day of February next:
Could the donation of the last legislature, out
of the debt due to this State from the United States,
have been obtained for the purposes of procuring a
library and the apparatus necessary for the several
schools the opportunity would have been highly
advantageous of having them chosen by this agent,
while in Europe, with the advice and assistance of
the respective professors. But the application was.
not in time to be acted on before the adjournment
of the late Congress. Yet some books were indis-
pensable, and some apparatus to make even an
imperfect commencement. To procure these articles,
458 Jefferson's Works
therefore, and to defray the expenses necessary
for the other objects of the mission, the Board was
under the necessity of applying to these purposes
a sum of 10,000 dollars of the annuity of the present
year, and to leave the internal finishing of the
library, however much to be regretted, until some
opportunity of greater convenience should occur.
There is some reason to doubt, from the informa-
tion received, whether our agent will be able to
effect his object at as early a day as we had expected.
But of this more will be known in time for its com-
munication by the rector with this report. Were
it still possible to obtain from the United States a
settlement of so much of the claim on them as was
appropriated to this institution, in time to find
our agent and professors yet in place to invest i.t,
our University would open under auspices highly
propitious in comparison with those to which it
will be subjected by this unfortunate delay.
The success of our collector in his applications for
the arrearages due from subscribers, has not been
as great as it has been in further securing the sums
which had not yet been secured. The receipts from
this resource since the date of our last report have
amounted to 2,069 dollars 88.5 cents-and the sums
deemed separate and still to be received, amount to
7,468 dollars 92.5 cents.
The accounts of the receipts, disbursements and
funds on hand for the year ending with the last
month of September, as rendered by the bursar and
Supplementary Manuscripts 459
proctor, are given with the report as is required by
law.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector.
October 5, 1824.
At a special meeting of the Board of Visitors
of the University, called by George Loyall, Chapman
Johnson and Joseph C. Cabell, while attending the
last session of the legislature, and held at the Uni-
versity March 4, 1825.
Present, Thomas Jefferson, rector, James Madison,
George Loyall, John H. Cocke and Joseph C. Cabell.
Resolved, that in consideration of the delay
which attended the opening of the University
beyond the day on which it had been announced,
the uncertainty which this might occasion in the
minds of many at what time it might be opened,
and the temporary engagements which in conse-
quence thereof they might enter into elsewhere,
notice shall be given that, for the present year,
students will be received at the University at any
time of the year when they become disengaged, on
payment of so much only of the usual charges as
shall be proportioned to the time unexpired at the
date of their reception. .
A blank having been left in one of the regulations
of the 4th of October last, respecting the price of
board in boarding-houses nut within the precincts
of the University, resolved, that it be filled with
the sum of 120 dollars.
460 Jefferson's Works
On a revision of the rule of October 4 last, respect-
ing testimony required from students, it was pro-
posed to amend the same by striking out the words,
"if unwilling to give it, let the moral obligation be
explained and urged, under which every one is
bound to bear witness where wrong has been done,
but finally let it, " and to insert instead thereof the
words, "and the obligation to give it shall," which
being agreed to, the rule as amended now stands
in these words : " When testimony is required from
a student, it shall be voluntary and not on oath,
and the obligation to give it shall be left to his own
sense of right."
A resolution was moved and agreed to in the
following words : '
Whereas, it is the duty of this Board to the
government under which it lives, and especially to
that of which this University is the immediate
creation, to pay especial attention to the principles
of government which shall be inculcated therein,
and to provide that none shall be inculcated which
are incompatible with those on which the Consti-
tutions of this State, and of the United States were
genuinely based, in the common opinion ; and for
this purpose it may be necessary to point out
specially where these principles are to be found
legitimately developed :
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this Board
that as to the general principles of liberty and the
rights of man, in nature and in society, the doc-
Supplementary Manuscripts 461
trines of Locke, in his "Essay concerning the true
original extent and end of civil government, '' and
of Sidney in his "Discourses on government," may
be considered as those generally approved by our
fellow citizens of this, and the United States, 'and
that on the distinctive principles of the govern-
ment of our State, and of that of the United States,
the best guides are to be found in, 1. The Declaration
of Independence, as the fundamental act of union
of these States. 2. The book known by the title of
" The Federalist, " being an authority to which appeal
is-habitually made by all, and rarely declined or denied
by any as evidence of the general opinion of those who
framed, and of those who accepted the Constitution
of the United States, on questions as to its genuine
meaning. 3. The Resolutions of the General Assembly
of Virginia in 1799 on the subject of the alien and se-
dition laws, which appeared to accord with the pre-
dominant sense of the people of the United States.
q.. The valedictory address of President Washington,
as conveying political lessons of peculiar value. And
that in the branch of the school of law, which is to
treat on the subject of civil polity, these shall be
used as the text and documents of the school.
Resolved, that George Tucker, Esquire, of Lynch-
burg, be appointed professor of the school of moral
philosophy.
Resolved, that Doctor John Patton Emmet, of
New York, be appointed professor of the school of
natural history.
462 Jefferson's Works
Resolved, that whensoever the 50,000 dollars,
which the legislature has authorized this Board to
receive from the General Government for the pur-
chase of a library and apparatus, shall be placed
at the command of the Board, the sum of 6,000
dollars advanced by the fund for building and other
general purposes towards the purchase of books
and apparatus, should be charged to the Literary
Fund, and replaced to the credit of that for building
and other general purposes.
Resolved, that on receipt of the said 50,000 dollars
and consequent replenishment of the building fund,
an anatomical theatre be built, as nearly as may
be on the plan now exhibited to the Board.
The Board adjourned to to-morrow.
March 5, the Board met according to adjourn-
ment, present the same members as yesterday.
Resolved, that on payment of the said sum of
50,000 dollars by the General Government, a sum
not exceeding 6,000 dollars thereof be advanced on
loan to the building fund of the University for the
purpose of finishing the interior of the library-room.
For the use and care of the library the Board now
establishes the following regulations :
The professors of the University shall at all times
have free use of the books of the library, in con-
fidence that they will not keep them out longer
than while in actual use, and leaving with the
librarian a note of the books borrowed.
Supplementary Manuscripts 463
Books may be lent to the students of the Univer-
sity, by the librarian, and by no other person, on
a written permit from a professor whom such
student attends, specifying the day beyond which
they will not be retained. But it is meant that
the books lent are for reading only, and not for
the ordinary purpose of getting lessons in them as
school books.
No student shall carry any book borrowed from
the library, out of the precincts of the University;
nor shall any student be permitted to have more
than three volumes in his possession at any time.
If a student shall not return a borrowed book
on or before the day limited in his permit, he shall
receive no other until it be returned; and he shall
pay, moreover, for every week's detention beyond
the limitation, ten cents for a 12 mo. or book of
smaller size, twenty cents for an 8 mo., thirty cents
for a 4 mo. and forty cents for a folio.
Not every book in the. library shall be free to
be lent to students, but such only as shall not be
expressly prohibited by the faculty on account
of their rarity, value or liableness to injury.
No student shall ever be in the library but in
presence of the librarian, or of some professor
whom he attends, nor shall be allowed to take
any book from the shelves, nor remain in the room
to read or consult any book, but during such presence.
If any student deface, injure, or lose any book
of the library, he shall pay the value of the book
464 Jefferson's Works
if defaced; double value if injured, and threefold,
if lost; and shall be suspended from the privilege
of borrowing during such term as the faculty shall
adjudge.
On some one day of every week during term,
and during one hour of that day (such day and
hour to be fixed on by the faculty) the librarian
shall attend in the library, to receive books returned,
and to lend such others as shall be applied for
according to rule. And at some one hour of every
day (to be fixed by the faculty) the librarian
shall attend, if requested by any such professor,
such book or books as he may require, and to
receive any he may have to return.
The librarian shall make an entry of every book
lent, and cancel the same when returned, so that
it may always be known in what hands every book is.
Strangers whom the librarian may be willing to
attend, may visit the library; but, to prevent
derangement of the books, they are to take no
book from the shelf, but in his presence. They
may also be permitted to consult any book, to
read in it, make notes or quotations from it, at
the table, under such accommodations and arrange-
ments as the librarian shall prescribe, on his own
responsibility.
Resolved, that the salary of the librarian be
raised to the sum of 150 dollars.
Resolved, that the moneys, expected as before
mentioned from the General Government; shall be
Supplementary Manuscripts 465
paid, the Board consider it advisable to employ
Mr. Hilliard, of the firm of Cummings, Hilliard
and Co., of Boston, to purchase the library of the
University, according to the catalogue which has
been made.
Resolved, that the professorships of the school of
law be proposed to Chancellor Henry St. George
Tucker, and in the event of his refusal, then to
Judge Philip P. Barbour, and if he should refuse,
that then the rector be authorized to call the Board
for the purpose of further proceeding towards
making the appointment.
Resolved, that the loan of 5,000 dollars, which
has been negotiated by the bursar of the Univer-
sity with the Farmers' Bank of Virginia, and the
terms on which the same has been negotiated, be
confirmed by the Board of Visitors, and the funds
of the University are hereby pledged for the reim-
bursement of the said loan.
A letter having been addressed to the Board
of Visitors by Mr. Bonnycastle, professor of natural
philosophy, representing that from the communi-
cations with the agent of the Board, on the subject
of his appointment, he conceived himself entitled
to expect that a bond of his to the British govern-
ment to the amount of L500 would be advanced:
Resolved, that the rector be requested to obtain
from Mr. Gilmer his view of the understanding
which took place on the occasion; and if it should
appear to the rector, from the circumstances of the
vol. xix 3o
466 Jefferson's Works
case, that the interest and credit of the University
would justify and require the advances, in that
event it shall be made from the funds of the insti-
tution.
Resolved, that John H. Cocke and Jos. C. Cabell
be appointed a committee to settle the accounts of
the proctor and the bursar of the University.
And the Board adjourned without day.
TH. JEFFERSON.
March 5, 1825.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University
of Virginia at the said University on Monday the
3d of October, 1825, at which were present Thomas
Jefferson, rector, James Madison, James Brecken-
ridge, Joseph C. Cabell, John H. Cocke, Chapman
Johnson and George Loyall.
In pursuance of the resolution of the Board of
the 5th of March last, on the subject of a claim of
Mr. Bonnycastle to the discharge of a certain bond
for L500 sterling, given by him to the British
government, the rector having agreed with him
that the money payment thereof should be advanced
by the University to be repaid by him in instal-
ments, Resolved, that the Board approves of the
said agreement, and of the provisional measures
taken by the rector in his letters to Rufus King,
and Peter Barlow, bearing date the 30th of June
last, for its advance, if required by that government.
Supplementary Manuscripts 467
(1)Resolved, that the Board ratifies and confirms
the purchase lately made by the rector of 13 a acres
of land of John M. Perry, lying between and adjacent
to the two parcels of 107.8 and 153 acres here-
tofore owned by the University, which purchase was
made on the proposition of the rector with the
approbation of the following members, to wit:
Of James Madison, James Breckenridge, John.H.
Cocke, Joseph C. Cabell and George Loyall, pre-
viously expressed in letters from them individually
to the rector, and the payment already made
towards the same, is approved.
Resolved, that the Board approves of the advance
of 18,000 dollars to William Hilliard, agent for pro-
curing the library, of the deposit made in the hands
of Rufus King, Esquire, of 6,300 dollars for the
purchase of a philosophical apparatus, and of that
of 3,157 dollars 50 cents, in the same hands, for
articles necessary for the anatomical school, with
the instructions relative thereto given by the rector,
and also of the purchase, and payment of 500
dollars for Doctor Emmet's chemical apparatus and
collection of minerals.
Resolved, that the temporary application of 5,000
dollars of the library fund, which was lying unem-
ployed in the Bank of Virginia, to take up the
note for the like sum, lent by the Farmer's Bank
of Virginia to the University, thereby saving its
interest, and also of so much of the said fund as
1 See Journal of March 29, 1819, similar resolution.
468 Jefferson's Works
was necessary to make the first payment to Perry,
is approved, and that the same sums be replaced
from the general fund when necessary.
Resolved, that Francis Walker Gilmer be appointed
professor of the school of law.
Resolved, that it be communicated to the Faculty
of the professors of the University, as the earnest
request and recommendation of the rector and
Visitors, that so far as can be effected by their
exertions, they cause the statutes and rules enacted
for the government of the University, to be exactly
and strictly observed; that the roll of each school
particularly be punctually called at the hour at
which its students should attend; that the absent
and the tardy, without reasonable cause, be noted,
and a copy of these notations be communicated by
mail or otherwise to the parent or guardian of
each student respectively, on the first days of every
month during the term (instead of the days pre-
scribed in a former statute for such communications).
That it is requested of them to make known to
the students that it is with great regret that some-
breaches of order, committed by the unworthy
few who lurk among them unknown, render neces-
sary the extension to all of processes afflicting to
the feelings of those who are conscious of their
own correctness, and who are above all participa-
tion in these vicious irregularities. While the
offenders continue unknown the tarnish of their
faults spreads itself over the worthy also, and con-
Supplementary Manuscripts 469
founds all in a common censure. But that it is
in their power to relieve themselves from the impu-
tations and painful proceedings to which they are
thereby subjected, by lending their aid to the
faculty, on all occasions towards detecting the
real guilty. The Visitors are aware that a pre-
udice prevails too extensively among the young
that' it is dishonorable to bear witness one against
another. While this prevails, and under the form
of a matter of conscience, they have been unwilling
to authorize constraint, and have therefore, in their
regulations on this subject, indulged the error,
however unfounded in reason or morality. But
this loose principle in the ethics of school-boy
combinations, is unworthy of mature and regulated
minds, and is accordingly condemned by the laws
of their country; which, in offences within their
cognisance, compel those who have knowledge of
a fact, to declare it for the purposes of justice,
and of the general good and safety of society. And
certainly, where wrong has been done, he who
knows and conceals the deer of it, makes himself
an accomplice, and justly censurable as such. It
becomes then but an act of justice to themselves,
that the innocent and the worthy should throw
off with disdain all communion of character with
such offenders, should determine no longer to
screen the irregular and the vicious under the
respect of their cloak, and to notify them, even
by a solemn association for the purpose, that they
470 Jefferson's Works
will co-operate with the faculty in future, for pre-
servation of order, the vindication of their own
character, and the reputation and usefulness of an
institution which their country has so liberally
established for their improvement, and. to place
within their reach those acquirements in knowledge
on which their future happiness and fortunes depend.
Let the good and the virtuous of the alumni of
the University do this, and the disorderly will
then be singled out for observation, and deterred
by punishment, or disabled by expulsion, from
infecting with their inconsideration the institution
itself, and the sound mass' of those which it is pre-
paring for virtue and usefulness.
Although nocturnal absences from their chambers
occasionally happening are not entirely forbidden,
yet if frequent, habitual, or without excusable
cause, they should be also noted and reported,
with other special delinquencies, to the parent or
guardian.
The rector and Visitors, impressed themselves
with the beneficial effect, and the necessity of
strict examinations of the students, on the topics
of the lectures and lessons delivered them, recom-
mend this practice to the consideration and attention
of the professors.
The Board, considering that it will be for the
benefit of the school of medicine th.at its professor
should have opportunities of keeping in mind, to
a certain degree, the practical part of his profession,
Supplementary Manuscripts 471
and of acquiring moreover a knowledge of the
peculiarities of disease incident to our climate
and country, are of opinion that, besides the habitual
practice within the precincts of the University,
allowed by a former resolution, he be permitted
also to act as a consulting physician elsewhere,
so timing these avocations however, as not to
interrupt the regular business of his school.
The 4€ 5 5 acres of land purchased of Daniel A.
Piper and Mary his wife, since the date of the statute
defining the precincts of the University, and adja-
cent to the public road as now established, are
made a part of.the said precincts.
Resolved, that it be recommended to the faculty
of professors in their appointment of a janitor, to
have regard to his qualifications in law as a witness
to transactions passing within his notice, and that
such a janitor be allowed wages not exceeding zoo
dollars a year, and a room to lodge in, he dieting
and otherwise finding himself.
Resolved, that on a renewal of the leases of the
hotels, it shall be made a covenant and condition
of the leases that the tenants shall furnish no enter-
tainment in his tenement for pay or compensation
of any kind, to any one who is not a student of,
or attached to, the University, or a member of his
own family; nor shall he permit his tenement,
or any part of it, without compensation, to be
used for any other then the purposes of a boarding-
house. The faculty of professors, on these ques-
472 Jefferson's Works
tions, shall be judges of the matter of fact, and,
finding it true, shall decide either on the immediate
termination of the lease, and removal of the tenant
or his continuance on such special conditions as
shall satisfy them against a repetition of the offense.
Resolved, that the 35th enactment be amended
by striking therefrom the following words, "within
those precincts, within their own chamber or in
diet, a seat of degradation in his school-room of
longer or of shorter duration, removal to a lower
class, imposition of a task. "
Resolved, that the 36th enactment be amended
by striking therefrom the word " minor " and
inserting in lieu thereof the word " major. "
Resolved, that the 39th enactment be amended
by striking therefrom the words " impose a task. "
Resolved, that the 43d enactment be amended
by striking therefrom the following words, "and
repetitions of such offences by expulsion from the
University, " and inserting in lieu thereof the follow-
ing words, "or any of the minor or major punish-
ments at the discretion of the faculty."
Resolved, that the 43d enactment be amended
by adding thereto the following words, " that every
occupant of a dormitory permitting these offences
therein, be subject to any of the minor punishments
at the discretion of the faculty. "
Resolved, that the faculty shall have the power,
for offensive conduct, of removing the occupant
from any dormitory.
Supplementary Manuscripts 473
Resolved, that if a student be irregular in all
his classes for more than a month, after his parent
or guardian has been informed, the faculty shall
have the discretionary power to dismiss him from
the University.
Resolved, that the faculty shall have power
from time to time to prescribe regulations of police,
not inconsistent 'with the laws of the land, or the
enactments of this Board, which regulations shall
be submitted to the Visitors at their next succeed-
ing meeting and shall be in force till disapproved
by the Visitors or repealed by the faculty.
The Board then adjourned to to-morrow.
Tuesday, October 4
The Board met according to adjournment. Pre-
sent the same members as yesterday.
On complaint from the faculty of certain riotous
proceedings of some of the students on the nights
of September 30 and October 2, and of insults on
some of the professors, the whole of the students
were called before the Board of Visitors, they were
exhorted to state to the Board the facts which
had taken place within their knowledge, whereupon
fourteen of them came forward and acknowledged
that on the night of the second they had masked
and disguised themselves and gone out on the lawn
where they had made some noise, but denied they
had committed any trespasses or insults on the
474 Jefferson's Works
professors, and on their engaging to appear before
the board of the faculty and to repeat to them the
information now given, they were dismissed.
The Board receives from Messrs. Key and Long
a written declaration that in consequence of the
transactions which had taken place, and particu-
larly of a remonstrance of the day before sub-
scribed by sixty-five students, they could no longer
remain in their present situations, that they had lost
all confidence in the signers of that remonstrance,
and cannot and will not meet them again.
The Board adjourned to to-morrow.
Wednesday, October 5.
The Board met according to adjournment. Pre-
sent the same members as yesterday.
Resolved that the 47th enactment be amended,
by inserting after the word " chewing " the words
" or smoking. "
No student shall appear out of his dormitory
masked or disguised in any manner whatever
which may render the recognition of his person
more difficult, on pain of suspension or expulsion
by the faculty of professors.
Intoxication shall, for the first offense, be liable
to any of the minor punishments, and any repetition
of the offence to any of the major punishments.
Resolved, that the 40th enactment be amended,
by inserting after the word " dissipation, " the words
" of profane swearing. "
Supplementary Manuscripts 475
No person who has been a student at any other
incorporated seminary of learning shall be received
at this University, but on producing a certificate
from such seminary or other satisfactory evidence
to the faculty with respect to his general good
conduct.
The professors being charged with the execution
of the laws of the University, it becomes their
duty to pursue proper means to discover and pre-
vent offences. Respect from the student to the
professor being at all times due, it is more especially
so when the professor is engaged in his duty. Such
respect, therefore, is solemnly enjoined on every
student, and it is declared and enacted, that if
any student refuse his name to a professor, or
being required by him to stop, shall fail to do so,
or shall be guilty of any other disrespect to a pro-
fessor, he shall be liable to any of the punishments,
minor or major. .
Resolved, that the compensation to the accountant
whom the committee of accounts has employed or
may employ at any time be ten dollars a day while
employed.
The act of Congress imposing an additional duty
of 15 per cent on works of marble, having been
passed after the marble capitals for the portico of
the rotunda had been ordered, it is considered €as
retrospective and unjust, and that it will be proper
to apply to Congress for a remission of that portion
of duty thereon, as it may be thought by that
476 Jefferson's Works
body but a just encouragement to science to relieve
the University from the old as well as new duties
on the marbles recently received for the same
building, it will be expedient to bond the whole
duties for eight months to give time for application
to Congress on the subject. And thereupon the
members executed the requisite bond in their
individual characters, instructing at the same time,
the proctor to retain in his hand always a sufficient
sum to pay the duties, old and new, if ultimately
required.
Resolved, that 400 copies of a new edition of
the enactments of the Board of Visitors for the
government of the University be printed, in which
the amendments 'made since the date of each enact-
ment shall be incorporated, so that the same shall
read in form and substance as now established.
The Board being of the opinion that so much
of the ground of the University as can be con-
veniently applied to that purpose, should be laid
off in lots for the uses of the professors, the proctor
and keepers of the hotels, rent free, but to be enclosed
and improved at their expense; therefore,
Resolved, that the proctor, under the direction
of the executive committee, do cause such lots to
be laid off, and assigned to the several pavilions
and hotels and to the proctor's house.
Resolved, that on the supposition that the renters
of the hotels might reasonably have expected thirty-
three boarders for the term, at the rent of zoo dollars
Supplementary Manuscripts 477
(283 days, 200 dollars), in which they have been
more or less disappointed, the Board of Visitors
deem it just that in consideration of the particular
circumstances of the present year an abatement
should be made in the rent of each in the propor-
tion of the number of boarders each had, and the
time of his boarding with them combined.
The Board adjourned to to-morrow morning.
Thursday, October 6.
The Board met according to adjournment. Pre-
sent the same members as yesterday.
Resolved, that Mr. Johnson, Mr. Cabell, and Mr.
Loyall be appointed a committee, whose duty it
shall be to consider and enquire what system may
be digested for the better government of the Uni-
versity; that they be especially charged with the
duty of considering how far it may be practicable
and prudent to connect with the University a court
having cognisance over misdemeanors committed
within the precincts of the University, and over
those committed by members of the University,
within the county of Albemarle, and that they
report thereupon to the next meeting of the Visitors.
Resolved, that for the purpose of receiving the
report of the committee appointed by the preceding
resolution, and of acting thereupon, and for the
transaction of such other business as may then
require attention, an extra meeting of the Board
be held on the second Monday in December next.
478 Jefferson's Works
A communication from the faculty of professors
is received in the following words, to wit: "Uni-
versity of Virginia. Ordered, that Wilson Miles
Carey having, on the night of the 1st instant, resisted
the authority of a professor, used violence against
him, and excited others to follow his example, and
for abusive epithets concerning the said professor,
be expelled from the University. Copied from the
minutes of the faculty. Robert Dunglison, secre-
tary. George Tucker, chairman of the faculty.
October 6, 1825." Resolved, that the said sentence
is unanimously approved by the Board of Visitors.
Another communication from the said professors
is received in the .following words, to wit : " Uni-
versity of Virginia. Ordered, that William L. Eyre
having, on the night of the 1st instant, promoted
a riot by repeatedly using indecent and approbrious
language respecting some of the professors during
the disturbance of the night in, question, and having
refused to give his name when called upon by two
professors, be expelled from the University. Copied
from the minutes of the faculty. Robert Dung-
lison, secretary. George Tucker, chairman. 1825,
October 6. " Resolved, that the said sentence is
unanimously approved by the Board of Visitors.
A third communication from the said professors
is also received in the following words, to wit : " Uni-
versity of Virginia. Ordered, that Robert A. Thomp-
son having, on the night of the first instant, armed
himself with a stick for the purpose of resisting
Supplementary Manuscripts 479
the authority of two professors, be expelled from
the University. Copied from the minutes of the
faculty. Robert Dunglison, secretary. George
Tucker, chairman. October 6, I 82 5. " Resolved
that the said sentence is approved by the Board of
Visitors.
A letter is received from T. H. Key and George
Long in these words, to wit: "To the rector and
Visitors of the University of Virginia: Gentlemen,
The undersigned professors of the University of
Virginia hereby tender to you the resignation of
their respective. chairs. T. H. Key, George Long.
October 6 ; 1825. "
Resolved, that Chapman Johnson, Joseph C.
Cabell and John H. Cocke be a committee to com-
municate to Professors Key and Long the objec-
tions which occur to the Board to the resignation
of their offices as proposed in theirs of this day,
and to confer with the said professors. on the sub-
ject of that letter.
Resolved, that the said committee do make
known to the faculty of professors the proceed-
ings which have been had upon their commu-
nication of the second day of this month, relative to
the disorders in the University, which have lately
occurred, and that they also make known to them
the names of those students who voluntarily acknow-
ledge themselves present a,nd agents in some of the
transactions complained of.
The Board adjourned to to-morrow.
480 Jefferson's Works
Friday, October 7, 1825.
The Board met according to adjournment. Pre-
sent the same members as yesterday.
Resolved, that the proctor be charged with the
duty at all times, as the attorney in fact of the
rector and Visitors, of preventing trespasses and
intrusions on the property of the University real
and personal, and of recovering its possession from
any person who shall improperly withhold the
same, and, for this purpose, that he institute such
legal proceeding as may be proper. It shall also
be his duty to lay before the civil authorities, and
to communicate to the proper law officer, such
information as he may at any time have, and as
may be calculated to prevent or punish breaches
of the peace, trespasses and other misdemeanors
within the precincts of the University, or com-
mitted by students elsewhere, and especially that he
take the proper measures to bring the late offenses
at the University before the civil authorities.
A motion was made in the following words, to
wit: "After the present year, the annual vacation
shall commence on the 1st of August and terminate
on the 14th of September. There may, moreover,
be allowed a recess of all the schools for two weeks
at Christmas. This regulation curtailing the next
session to six-tenths of the usual length, the fees
of the students for that session shall be reduced
accordingly. But this resolution shall be suspended
Supplementary Manuscripts 481
till approved by all the professors. And the said
motion was ordered to be laid on the table.
Resolved, that the Board of Visitors do not
accept the resignation of the chairs of Professors
T. H. Key and George Long. The proctor is
requested to communicate this resolution to those
gentlemen.
Resolved, that in case of vacancy in the office of
any professor happening during the recess of this
Board, it shall be lawful for the executive committee
to make such temporary arrangement for dis-
charging the duties of the vacant chair as they
deem expedient; provided that such arrangement
be not for a longer time .than the next meeting of
the Board. If such vacancy shall involve the
breach of contract on the part of any professor,
the proctor shall be required to cause an action
of covenant, or other proper action, to be brought
upon the contract, unless the executive committee
shall deem it inexpedient.
A form of a report, as annually required to be
made to the president and directors of the Literary
Fund, on the funds and condition of the Univer-
sity, was then proposed, amended, and agreed, in
the following words:
To the president and directors of the Literary
Fund :
In obedience to the law requiring that the rector
and Visitors of the University of Virginia should
make a report annually to the president and direc-
vol. xix -31
482 Jefferson's Works
tors of the Literary Fund (to be laid before the
legislature at their next succeeding session), embrac-
ing a full account of the disbursements, the funds
on hand, and a general statement of the condition
of the said University, the said rector and Visitors
make the following report:
That which was rendered on the 5th of October
of the last year informed the president and directors
of the Literary Fund of the state of preparation
to which we were then advanced towards getting
the institution into actual operation, of the measures
taken for procuring professors for the several schools,
for purchasing some books and apparatus, and of
the ground of hope then existing that it might
be actually opened on the 1st day of February,
then next ensuing. It was not, however, until the
7th of March that the professors of ancient and
modern languages, of mathematics, of natural phil-
osophy and of anatomy and medicine, being in
place, the institution was opened, and put into
operation. Professors of the schools of moral phil-
osophy and natural history were received at short
intervals afterwards; but no satisfactory engage-
ment having been effected, till lately, of a professor
for the chair of law, that school has not yet been
opened, nor is it decided whether it will be most
eligible to put it into operation at this advanced
season of the year, or to await the beginning of
the term in February next. The commencement
on the 7th of March was with about forty students,
Supplementary Manuscripts 483
others continued to arrive from day to day at first,
and from week to week since, and the whole number
matriculated on the last day of the last month
of September was 116. Few more can be expected
during .the present term, which closes on the 15th
of December next. And the state of the schools
on the same day was as follows:
In the school of ancient languages were 55 scholars ;
modern languages, 64; mathematics, 68; natural
philosophy, 33 ; natural history, 3o ; anatomy and
medicine, 20 ; moral philosophy, 14.
From the information received from different
quarters we have. reason to expect a large accession
to our numbers at the commencement of the next
term. The dormitories now provided can accom-
modate 218 students, the neighboring town. of
Charlottesville perhaps fifty more. But should
more be offered they could not be received. Ex-
boarders, too, will labor under serious disadvantages,
as, besides increased opportunities of relaxed order,
they must lose the use of the library, the books
of which cannot be permitted to be carried out
of the precincts of the University.
A printed copy' of the statutes and regulations
enacted by the Board of Visitors for the govern-
ment of the University is now communicated.
We have thought it peculiarly requisite to leave
to the civil magistrate the restraint and punish-
ment of all offences which come within the ordinary
cognisance of the laws. At the age of sixteen, the
484 Jefferson's Works
earliest period of admission into the University,
habits of obedience to the laws become a proper
part of education and practice. The minor pro-
visions and irregularities alone (unnoticed.by the
laws of the land) are the peculiar subjects. of aca-
demical authority. No system of these provisions
has ever yet prevented all disorder. Those first
provided by this Board were founded on the prin-
ciples of avoiding too much government, of not
multiplying occasions of coercion, by erecting indif-
ferent actions into things of offense, and of leaving
room to the student for habitually exercising his
own discretion. But experience has already proved
that stricter provisions are necessary for the pres-
ervation of order. That coercion must be resorted
to where confidence has been disappointed. We
have accordingly, at the present session, consider-
ably amended and enlarged the scope of our former
system of regulations, and we shall proceed in the
duties of tightening or relaxing the reins of govern-
ment as experience shall instruct us in the progress
of the institution; and we are not certain that the
further aid of the legislature itself will not be neces-
sary to enable the authorities of the institution to
interpose, in some cases, with more promptitude,
energy and effect than is permitted by the laws as
they stand at present.
The lands heretofore purchased for the use of the
University, consisted of two parcels, about a half
mile distant the one from the other; the one of
Supplementary Manuscripts 485
153 acres, comprehending a small mountain, pecu-
liarly adapted, and important to be secured, for
the purpose of an observatory, whenever the
future advance of circumstances may render such
an establishment desirable. The other of 107.8
acres, made up of several small purchases, which
constitute the site of the University itself. Between
these is a parcel of 132 acres, which, besides the
consolidation of these possessions, and other and
great conveniences offered by it, lies in the way
of the water necessary for the supply of the estab-
lishment, which is brought in pipes, through it,
from the high lands to the site of the University.
From the benefit of this communication we were
liable to be cut off, at any moment, by the owner-
of this parcel of lands. It was lately offered to us,
and at a price thought reasonable, to wit, at fifty
dollars the acre. We had, several years ago, paid
forty dollars for the parcel adjacent on one side,
and one hundred dollars the acre had been given
by an individual for a large parcel adjacent on
another side. The consideration that the purchase
would so far lessen the funds for finishing the
rotunda, called certainly for serious hesitation.
But the supply of water indispensable to the estab-
lishment, the irrecoverable loss of it, if sold out
to individuals in lots, as proposed by the proprietor,
made it, in our view, an over-ruling duty to secure
€the University so irreparable an injury, and we
concluded the purchase. This now gives to the
486 Jefferson's Works
institution a tract ' of nearly four hundred acres,
beyond the limits of which it has nothing to desire.
The last report stated that, in addition to the
sum of 19,370 dollars 40.5 cents which had been
paid or provided towards the building called the
rotunda, there were still remaining, of the general
funds a sum of about 21,000 dollars applicable to
that building; that this sum, although not sufficient
to finish it, would put it into a state of safety, and
of some uses, until other and more pressing objects
should have been accomplished. It has been indis-
pensable to finish the circular room, destined for
the reception of the books ; because, once deposited
in their places, the removing them for any finishing
which might be left to be done hereafter, would
be inadvisable. That has, therefore, been carried
on actively, and we trust will be ready in time for
the reception of the books. The other apartments
of indispensable use were, two for a chemical labor-
atory, one for a museum of natural history, and
one for examinations, for accessory schools, and
other associated purposes. An additional building,
too, for anatomical dissections, and other kindred
uses, was become necessary. We are endeavoring
to put these into a bare state for use, although
with some jeopardy as to the competence of the
funds.
On representation to the General Government of
the interest which the legislature of Virginia had
given to their University in certain claims then
Supplementary Manuscripts 487
depending between them, of the great disadvan-
tages under which that institution must labor,
without the books and apparatus which this dona-
tion was to supply, that government did not hesitate
to aid us with an advance, on account, of such
a sum as might cover that given to the University.
A catalogue of books for the library was thereupon
prepared, an agent employed to purchase them,
wherever they could be obtained cheapest and best,
and a sum of 18,000 dollars for this purpose was
placed at his disposal. A previous sum of ;, 6 ; 7
dollars 81 cents had been advanced by the general
fund for the purchase of books and apparatus of
immediate necessity; and a sum of 6,000 dollars
appropriated on loan towards preparing the room
in the rotunda destined for a library, making
together 31,677 dollars 8 I cents for the purchase
of a philosophical apparatus, a sum of 6,000 dollars
was deposited in London (having cost here 6,300
dollars). A list of the proper articles, and their
selection and purchase were committed to a char-
acter there highly qualified for the execution of
the charge, and another sum of 3,000 dollars was
deposited in London (having cost here 3,157 dollars
50 cents) for the acquisition of articles necessary
for the anatomical school, which, with 500, dollars
paid for a chemical apparatus, and 289 dollars 58
cents for transportation and other miscellaneous
expenses, amount to 41,924 dollars 8 9 cents, leaving
a balance of 8,075 dollars 11 cents for defraying
488 Jefferson's Works
incidental expenses, which will be considerable.
A good proportion of these articles we are in hopes
to receive this autumn, and the residue in the
ensuing spring. Some donations of mineral collec-
tions have already been received, others destined
for the University are known of, and it is believed
we shall, in this way, be supplied sufficiently for
all the purposes of education. Much, too, may be
expected from the future industry of the alumni
themselves of the University, when they shall have
entered on the active business of life.
The receipts by the collector of arrearages of
subscriptions since the date of our last report have
amounted to 2,734 dollars 89 cents, and the balance
still to be expected is 4,306.53.5, leaving a sum of
4,500 dollars desperate as is believed.
The accounts of the receipts, disbursements and
funds on hand for the year ending with the late
month of September, as rendered by the bursar
and proctor, are given with this report, as is required
by law.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector of the University.
The Board then adjourned to the second Monday
of December next.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector.
October 7, 1825.
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University
of Virginia, held at the said University, on Monday
Supplementary Manuscripts 489
the 3d and Tuesday the 4th of April, 1826, at which
were present, Thomas Jefferson, Joseph C. Cabell,
John H. Cocke, Chapman Johnson and James Madi-
son, the following proceedings were had:
There shall be established in the University a
dispensary, which shall be attached to the medical
school, and shall be under the sole direction and
government of the professor of medicine, who shall
attend personally at the anatomical theatre, or
such other place as he shall notify, from half after
one to two o'clock on every Tuesday, Thursday
and Saturday, for the purpose of dispensing medical
advice, vaccination, and aid in surgical cases of
ordinary occurrence, to applicants needing them.
All poor, free persons, disordered in body, topi-
cally or generally, and applying for advice, shall
receive it gratis; all others, bond or free, shall
receive it on payment of half a dollar at each atten-
dance, for the use of the institution, and all persons
shall be vaccinated gratis, and the students par€
ticularly shall be encouraged to be so, as a protection
to the institution against the malady of the small-pox.
The students of the medical school shall be
permitted to attend with the professor, to examine
the patients by the 'pulse, and other indications
of disease, ask of them such questions as the pro-
fessor shall think pertinent and shall permit, and
to acquire practical knowledge of the processes of
pharmacy by taking a part in the preparation of
medicines.
490 Jefferson's Works
The moneys so received shall be applied to the
providing and keeping up of a proper and sufficient
stock of medicines and salves, to the procuring
surgical instruments for ordinary operations, and
to defraying other expenses necessary for the
institution. For the first stock of medicines, and
for necessary instruments, money shall be advanced
from the funds of the University to be reimbursed
from the receipts of the dispensary.
Notice of this enactment shall be inserted in
the first Central Gazette of each month till dis-
continued by order of the executive committee,
for the purpose 'of keeping under constant notice,
all those who may wish to avail themselves of the
benefits of the institution. Passed April 4., 1826.
In order that the several schools may participate
equally of the conveniences and inconveniences of
early and late hours, on and after the 1st day of
July next (and without any change in their respec-
tive days of duty) there shall be an advance of
two hours in the times of the day for opening and
closing the three earlier schools of the day, and
that now latest shall take the earliest hours of its
day, which shall continue until the 1st of February
following, when there shall' again be a similar
advance and change of two hours. And like changes
shall continue to be made, on the same days in
every year after. Passed April 4, 1826.
The 43d enactment of the rector and Visitors
shall be amended by striking therefrom the follow-
Supplementary Manuscripts 491
ing words in the second line thereof, viz., "within
the precincts," and hereafter shall be interpreted
and executed as if these words were not therein.
Resolved, that there be established the office
of president of the University, with a salary of
1,500 dollars per annum, to be paid out of the
annuity of the University, in the manner in which
the salaries of the professors are paid.
The president shall be the executive officer of
superintendence of the execution of all laws made
for its government.
The proctor and all subordinate agents shall be
subject to his control and direction in the execution
of their respective duties.
He shall convene the faculty whenever he may
think the interests of the institution require it,a
and whenever else any two professors shall request it.
He shall preside at all the meetings of the faculty,
when present, and having a vote as professor, he
shall have a casting vote as president, when the ;
votes of the professors, pro and con, are equally
divided.
In his absence from the meetings of the faculty
a chairman pro tempore shall be appointed. In '
the absence of the president from the University,
and in case of his disability by sickness, or other-
wise, the faculty may be convened, and may act
as at present.
When the president shall believe that a student
492 Jefferson's Works
has committed any offence requiring trial before
the faculty, he shall have power to suspend such
student, and in case of emergency, forbid him
access within the precincts, till a board can be
convened for his trial; provided that no such
suspension or restraint shall be for a longer time
than two weeks, if a board can be convened within
that time. Any student violating the order of a
president, made pursuant to the authority hereby
vested in him, shall be deemed guilty of contumacy
and punished accordingly.
Resolved, that William Wirt, at present Attorney-
General of the United States, be appointed president
of the University and professor of law; and that
if he declines the appointment, the resolution
establishing the office of president be null and void.
If the appointment hereby made shall be accepted,
the professor will be expected to enter on the duties
of his office as soon as his convenience will allow,
not later, however, than the commencement of the
next session.
From the enactments establishing the office of
president, the rector dissented. His dissent is
ordered to be entered in the journal, and is in the
words following :
The subscriber, rector of the University, fully
and expressly concurring in the appointment of
William Wirt to the professor of the school of law,
dissents from, and protests against, so much of
these enactments as go to the establishment of
Supplementary Manuscripts 493
the office of president of the University, for these
reasons:
1. Because the law establishing the University,
delineating the organization of the authorities by
which it should be directed and governed, and
placing at its head a Board of rector and Visitors,
has enumerated with great precision the special
powers it meant to give to that Board, in which
enumeration is not to be found that of creating a
president, making him a member of the faculty
of professors, and with controlling powers over
that faculty; and it is not conceivable that, while
descending, in their enumeration to give specially
the power of appointing officers of the minutest
grade, they should have omitted to name him of
the highest, who was to govern and preside over
the whole. If this is not among the enumerated
powers, it is believed it cannot be legitimately
inferred, by construction, from the words giving
a general authority to do all things expedient for
promoting the purposes of the institution; for, so
construed, it would render nugatory the whole
enumeration, and confer on the Board powers
unrestrained within any limits.
2. Because he is of opinion that every function
ascribed to the president by this enactment, can
be performed, and is now as well performed by the
faculty, as now established by law.
3. Because we owe debts at this time of at
least 11,000 dollars beyond what can be paid by
494 Jefferson's Works
any means we have in possession, or may command
within any definite period of time; and fixes on
us permanently an additional expense of 15,000
dollars a year.
4. Because he thinks that so fundamental a
change in the organization of the institution ought
not to be made by a thin Board, two of the seven
constituting it, being now absent.
For these reasons the subscriber protests against
both the expedience and the validity of the estab-
lishment of this office.
TH. JEFFERSON.
Resolved, that John Taylor Lomax be appointed
professor of law to the University in case the appont-
ment shall be declined by Mr. Wirt.
The appointment of William Wertenbaker a
librarian to the University, is approved and con-
firmed.
Resolved, that it is proper to exclude students
from the library room, except in cases in which
the faculty may authorize their admission.
Resolved, that the proctor be instructed to take
proper measures to have prosecutions instituted
against D. S. Mosby and Thomas Draffin, for viola-
tions of the law concerning ordinaries and tippling
houses, and to haye their licenses revoked, if any
they have. That it be also the duty of the proctor
to have likewise proceedings instituted against
other such offenders, if any should be at any time
known to him.
Supplementary Manuscripts 495
To enable the proctor to perform this and other
duties requiring proceedings in court, he shall be
authorized to employ counsel for the University,
and pay him reasonable fees.
It being suggested to the Board that a young
man named Robert Beverly abiding for the time
in the town of Charlottesville, habitually indulges
habits of intemperance and disorder, violating the
laws of the land, setting an evil example to the
students, and seducing them from their duties, and
the Visitors deeming it their duty to procure the
punishment of such offences in order that the
offender and his example may be removed, therefore,
Resolved, that the proctor be instructed to give
information to the attorney for the Commonwealth
for the county court, and superior court of law for
Albemarle, and to take such measures as either of
the said attorneys shall advise, for binding the said
Robert Beverly to his good behavior, and for
punishing his violations of the law.
Resolved, that the proctor be instructed to
consult with the attorney for the Commonwealth
for the superior court, and take such measures as
may be proper to continue the prosecutions com-
menced against Philip Clayton and William L.
Eyre, late students of the University, or to institute
new prosecutions if necessary.
It is especially enjoined on the proctor to make
vigilant enquiry into the violence lately offered to
the house of Professor Emmet, and the wall of
496 Jefferson's Works
Professor Blaetterman's garden, and to endeavor to
bring the offenders before the civil authorities.
Resolved, that students heretofore or hereafter,
expelled from the University, shall be absolutely
inhibited from coming in its precincts for the period
of five years after such expulsion, unless by leave
of some professor ; and if any such expelled student
shall come within the precincts in violation of this
resolution, it shall be the duty of the proctor to
warn him off, and if he do not depart, or after-
wards returns, the proctor shall consult with the
attorney employed for the University, and take
such measures as the law will allow for punishing
the offense, and preventing its repetition.
The keepers of the hotels are expected to be
men of discretion and firmness, willing at all times
to co-operate with the faculty and Visitors in
executing the laws of the institution; it is, there-
fore, at present recommended to them as proper,
and after the existing leases expire, it is expressly
enjoined upon them as a duty, that they shall
whenever called on, either by the Visitors, or by
the faculty, freely give evidence upon honor, of
all matters within their knowledge, touching the
conduct of the students.
In all future leases of the hotels the proctor is
required to insert an express covenant that the
tenant shall, during the continuance of the lease,
conform to the laws of the institution existing at
the date of the lease, and a condition that for the
Supplementary Manuscripts 497
wilful violation of such law the lease shall be void,
and the tenant removed or continued on special
conditions, as provided by the eighty-fourth enact-
ment.
No student boarding at any hotel, shall be allowed
to change his boarding-house till the end of the
session, without permission from the faculty.
Hacks and other carriages let on hire shall be '
admitted within the precincts of the University
only under such regulations as shall be prescribed
by the faculty.
The executive committee are required to provide
for lighting the University, if it can be effectually
done at a reasonable expense.
The proctor is required to keep the drains in the
grounds of the University always' free from obstruc-
tion, and to construct such others as the executive
committee may direct.
If the duties on the imported marble should be
remitted by Congress, the executive committee are
authorized to procure a clock and bell for the use
of the University.
That part of the communication of the faculty
respecting the procurement of books for the students,
is referred to the executive committee, who are
requested to investigate the subject, and take such
measures as they may find expedient to obviate
the evils,complained of.
The list of periodical publications furnished by
the faculty, being approved by the Board, the
vol. xix-32
498 Jefferson's Works
rector is requested to forward a copy thereof to
Mr. Hilliard, and to require him to furnish them
to the University annually, till the further order
of the Board.
The expulsion of Philip Clayton from the Univer-
sity by an order of the faculty, made on the 14th
of October last, is approved and confirmed by this
Board.
The expulsion of William Lewis Cabell, by an
order of the faculty made on the 30th of January
last, is also approved and confirmed.
The Board having received a communication
from the professors of medicine and ancient
languages on the subject of diplomas, on which
they are not prepared to act definitely, the faculty
are invited to take under their consideration the
subject of diplomas and premiums for literary merit,
and to report to the Visitors at their meeting next
autumn, such alterations in the enactments on that
subject as they may deem expedient.
The communication of the faculty, on the sub-
ject of police, is referred to the committee raised
at the last meeting of the Board, and charged with
the duty of digesting and reporting a system for
the better government of the University; and that
committee is required to report to the Board at
their next meeting.
The Board adjourns without day.
TH. JEFFERSON, Rector.
April 7, 1826.
Supplementary Manuscripts 499
At a meeting of the Visitors of the University of
Virginia, held at the University on Monday, October
2d, 18.26, at which were present James Madison,
James Breckenridge, Joseph C. Cabell, John H.
Cocke, Chapman Johnson and James Monroe.
The Board being apprised of the death of Thomas
Jefferson, rector, proceeded to fill the vacancy in
that office, and James Madison was elected.